Synopsis: Twelve individuals are charged with the possession, transportation and trafficking of narcotics.

The Koh Kong Provincial Court has ordered the pre-trial detention of 12 suspects, including one Laotian national, over the alleged possession, transportation and trafficking of nearly one tonne of illegal drugs seized during a police raid in the province last week.

An investigating judge ordered the suspects held in prison yesterday pending further legal proceedings, according to provincial anti-drug police.

Koh Kong Provincial Anti-Drug Police Office deputy chief Lieutenant Colonel Sem Sorphea said the suspects were arrested on October 13 during a raid on a rented house in Khemarak Phoumin City.

He said police seized 39 sacks containing 982 packages of drugs, along with an additional quantity of orange WY-stamped pills, during the operation.

The seized drugs weighed a total of 978 kilogrammes and 880.55 grammes, making it a major drug seizure in the province, he added.

He said that following an examination of the evidence and questioning of the suspects, prosecutors charged the 12 with illegally possessing, transporting and trafficking narcotic substances, as well as complicity in the offences.

According to police, the alleged offences took place between August and October 13.

The suspects could face life imprisonment, if convicted.