A Malaysia Airlines pilot, identified as 39-year-old Malaysian national MS, was apprehended at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta for attempting to smuggle over 70,000 ecstasy pills (approximately 57 pounds) and 4 grams of methamphetamine. Indonesian authorities suspect MS was also under the influence of drugs while flying, as his urine tests came back positive for MDMA, ecstasy, methamphetamine, and cocaine. He reportedly admitted to being offered over $12,200 to transport the drugs.

Surveillance footage captured the moment MS was flagged at customs after arriving on flight MH272 from Kuala Lumpur, which carried at least 170 passengers. He was allegedly instructed to check into a hotel to complete the drug deal. MS also confessed to previous drug smuggling activities, including transporting methamphetamine to Sabah and Jakarta.

Malaysia Airlines has stated its cooperation with authorities and initiated an internal review. MS faces severe penalties in Indonesia for drug offenses, potentially including death by firing squad or life imprisonment.