By Jaythaleela K
MIRI, May 22: Contrabands meant for the forthcoming Gawai Dayak celebration were seized by the General Operations Force (GOF) Miri from three stores in Pujut Padang Kerbau, here, yesterday.
GOF Miri commanding officer Supt Tan Hiap Seng told a press conference today that the smuggled items were worth more than RM844,000 and that the 8.30pm raid was conducted after two-week surveillance by its intelligence unit.
“A total 13,673 cigarettes of various brands, 14,304 cans of beers and 274 bottles of liquors were confiscated. We also detained a 22-year-old local man, believed to be the store caretaker,” said Tan.
The seizure is the biggest by GOF Miri this year.
According to Tan, the three stores were located behind a house in the area and was frequently used for storing contrabands before distribution to potential buyers.
“Based on our preliminary investigation, these contrabands were brought here from outside via sea routes,” Tan revealed, adding that the goods were meant for the Gawai celebration.
“It was a fruitful surveillance work by our men, as we managed to intercept this illegal activity.”
Meanwhile, the caretaker has been handed over to the police for further action, while the seized goods have been handed to the Customs Department. The case is being investigated under Section 135 (1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967. — DayakDaily
