(Miri, 22nd) The Sarawak Customs Department recently successfully prevented a case of cigarette and liquor smuggling, with the total value of the seized goods (including taxes and duties) estimated to reach RM566,691.20.
According to Sarawak Customs Director Norizan Yahya, the operation was carried out at 8:30 a.m. on March 16 based on intelligence provided by the headquarters Intelligence Zone.
A team from the Land Operations Unit of the Enforcement Branch, Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) in Miri, conducted the raid at the Eastwood Valley Industrial Estate and inspected a locked 20-foot container.
Upon inspection, enforcement officers discovered up to 700,000 sticks of various brands of white cigarettes, all without tax stamps, and also found 1,536 liters of suspected smuggled liquor.
The market value of the confiscated goods is approximately RM74,372, while the estimated tax and duty evaded amount to RM492,319.20.
Initial investigations revealed that the container was used as a storage facility for these prohibited items. Authorities believe that the parties involved attempted to use the industrial area location to hide the contraband and evade customs enforcement.
This case is being investigated under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967. If convicted, the offenders could face a fine of up to RM500,000, a maximum imprisonment of five years, or both.