By Dorcas Ting
KUCHING, Dec 11: A 54-year-old lorry driver from Bau was today fined RM200,000 or 15 months’ imprisonment if he fails to pay after admitting to transporting a large quantity of subsidised diesel without a permit.
Arres Nojeb pleaded guilty before Sessions Court Judge Iris Awen Jon to a charge framed under the Control of Supplies Act 1961 for possessing 8,000 litres of controlled diesel without a valid licence.
According to the facts of the case, Arres was stopped on January 7 along Jalan Kampung Stass while driving a Mitsubishi Fuso Canter. An inspection found eight IBC tanks on the lorry; all filled with diesel.
The offence carries a maximum fine of RM1 million or up to three years’ imprisonment, with heavier penalties for repeat offenders.
The court also ordered that the seized diesel be forfeited to the government, while the lorry used in the offence will be disposed of by the authorities.
Case documents revealed that the vehicle was initially detained by members of the General Operations Force in Batu Kawa before being handed over to the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN).
Checks confirmed that Arres did not possess any licence or permit to transport scheduled controlled goods. The lorry was registered to a retail company.
Investigators believe the fuel was intended to be smuggled across the border for illegal sale.
Prosecuting officer Goh Kok Hong urged the court to impose a deterrent sentence, stressing that subsidised diesel is meant for domestic consumption and must not be diverted for illicit profit. — DayakDaily
