By Malcolm Lau
KUCHING, Feb 8: A total of 2,493 pieces of various species of coral with the total value of RM2,493,000 were confiscated during an ‘Op Bersepadu Khazanah’ which was held at Kampung Pandang, Lundu on Friday night.
A team of nine members of General Operations Force (GOF) 11th Battalion and two officers from Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) conducted the raid around 11 pm.
“Based on investigations, it was believed that these rare species corals were exported to other countries such as Singapore and United Kingdom,” said GOF 11th Batallion commanding officer Supt Rosdi Inai said during the press conference.
According to Rosdi, these rare species of coral could only be found in Sarawak, making them a rare find for collectors.
Meanwhile, a 56-year-old man believed to own the land at Kampung Pandang failed to show a permit and license for the corals in his possession and was arrested to assist in investigations.
The suspect had been handed over to SFC Kuching division for investigation under Section 29(2) of the Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1998. —DayakDaily
