Police in Malaysia investigate suspected drug-laced vape supply after viral crash footage in Sabah

MALAYSIA: A 24-year-old man has admitted to using a vape containing a mixture of narcotic substances before a road accident that drew widespread attention after footage of his behaviour at the scene went viral on social media.

According to a statement from Sabah police, the man was identified following investigations by the Sabah Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department after the video circulated online.

The footage, recorded after the accident on 1 June, showed the driver appearing disoriented and largely unresponsive while speaking to people at the scene, prompting public speculation about his condition.

Police identify driver after viral video

According to Sabah Acting Deputy Police Commissioner Mohd Azhar Hamin, investigators traced the man, who is from Kota Marudu, through information gathered during follow-up enquiries.

Initial investigations led officers to the man's mother, who operates a business in Kota Marudu.

Police subsequently conducted a urine screening test on the suspect through narcotics investigators in the district.

According to Mohd Azhar, the test results showed the man was negative for drug abuse.

Admission during questioning

However, police said further interviews with the suspect revealed that he had used a vape containing a mixture of narcotic substances before the accident.

According to the police statement, the man told investigators that he had purchased the vape product from an individual in the Tanjung Aru area.

Authorities did not disclose the type of narcotic substance allegedly contained in the vape liquid.

Investigation expands to suspected supplier

Following the man's admission, information regarding the suspected seller was forwarded to narcotics investigators in Kota Kinabalu for further investigation.

According to Sabah police, efforts are ongoing to identify and locate the individual believed to be involved in supplying vape liquids mixed with narcotic substances.

The case has also renewed public discussion in Malaysia about the availability of illicit substances in vape products and the challenges of detecting their use.

Public reaction after crash footage

The viral video attracted significant attention online, with many social media users questioning the driver's condition after the collision.

In the footage, several people attempted to speak with the driver and seek clarification regarding the accident and resulting vehicle damage.

The man appeared unable or unwilling to respond to questions and seemed unaware of his surroundings, leading to widespread speculation before police completed their investigation.

Authorities have not announced any arrests related to the alleged sale of the vape liquid.

Investigations are continuing.