Customs officers in Penang have seized more than RM3.6 million worth of untaxed cigarettes and alcoholic beverages following a raid on a warehouse in Bukit Mertajam.
The operation, carried out on 13 March, was based on public tip-offs and two months of surveillance of the premises on Jalan Berapit, Bukit Mertajam.
State customs director Rohaizad Ali told a press conference that inspectors found crates containing 86,800 sticks of regular and kretek cigarettes, along with 55,605 litres of beer and liquor. The total value, including duties and taxes, came to RM3,606,065.03.
“The seized items are believed to have been intended for distribution to the local market. Authorities are seeking to identify the warehouse owner,” Rohaizad said.
The case is being investigated under the Customs Act 1967 for possession, storage, or concealment of uncustomed or prohibited goods. Those found guilty face a fine of between RM100,000 and RM500,000, six months to five years in prison, or both.
Source: Free Malaysia Today
