Malaysian police are collaborating with the US DEA to investigate how a family-run drug syndicate obtained synthetic drugs from Central America, a departure from the usual Golden Triangle supply route. Authorities are examining the travel history of three arrested suspects to understand this connection. The syndicate, dismantled in raids that seized 2.16 tonnes of drugs worth RM82.1 million, may have sought to avoid scrutiny associated with the Golden Triangle. Police are also looking for two more suspects. Documents suggest the drugs, concealed as "plastic flakes," were intended for local distribution and export to Japan and South Korea via courier services. This method of using courier services for drug trafficking has reportedly increased post-COVID-19.