KUCHING, May 10: The 11th Batallion General Operation Force (GOF) handed over 8,347 kilogrammes of packaged cooking oil, valued at RM20,867.50, along with two lorries, seized from a smuggling activity intercepted at Kampung Raso 2 in Lundu, to the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Sarawak yesterday.
KPDN Sarawak director Matthew Dominic Barin, who received the seized items, disclosed that the total value of the seizures was estimated at RM75,867.50.
In a press statement, he highlighted that two locals involved were apprehended and turned over to the Ministry’s enforcement team.
“The case is being investigated under Section 20 (1) of the Supply Control Act (AKB) 1961 for storing controlled goods in an unauthorised premises,” he said.
If the offenders are a registered company, they could face fines of up to RM2 million for the first offense or up to RM5 million for subsequent offenses if convicted.
Individual offenders could face fines of up to RM1 million for the first offense, imprisonment not exceeding three years, or both, and fines of up to RM3 million for subsequent offenses, imprisonment not exceeding five years, or both.
Matthew revealed that to date, a total of 30,547 inspections have been conducted, resulting in 345 cases with total seizures valued at RM13,843,566.
“The total amount of fines involved RM61,900, with 90 cases under AKB 1961,” he added.
He urged the public to assist the Ministry by providing information on smuggling of controlled and subsidised goods to help eradicate such illegal activities from its roots, as they cause significant losses to both the people and the country.
Information can be reported via WhatsApp at 019-8488000 or 019-2794317, e-aduan.kpdn.gov.my, call centre 1-800-886-80, or the Ez ADU KPDN mobile app. — DayakDaily
