BESUT — The 22-year-old skipper involved in the Perhentian Island boat tragedy that killed three people has pleaded guilty to drug use at the Besut Magistrates’ Court.

Azrie Yazid admitted to consuming Nimetazepam, a controlled sedative, during a test at the Besut police narcotics division on June 29.

He was charged under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 and faces up to two years’ jail, a RM5,000 fine, or both. The court set bail at RM2,500 and fixed September 4 for case mention pending a pathology report.

Three victims, including a man, his young daughter, and a 10-year-old relative, died when the boat capsized in rough seas on June 29. Besut police confirmed Azrie tested positive for drugs and has five prior drug-related records.