TAWAU: Authorities uncovered the diversion of 1,350 litres of subsidised diesel believed to be linked to a fuel syndicate following a raid at an abandoned workshop along Jalan Damai here on Tuesday evening.
The raid, carried out at about 7.30pm, led to the seizure of diesel and several items believed to have been used in the illegal operation.
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The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) Sabah said the case was handed over by the General Operations Force (PGA) Battalion 14 Tawau to the KPDN Tawau branch for further action.
The total value of the seizure was estimated at more than RM104,000, including an eight-tonne modified Isuzu lorry, metal drums, fuel hoses and a pumping machine.
A 30-year-old local man, believed to be the lorry driver, was also detained for further investigation after being suspected of involvement in the activity.
The case is being investigated under the Supply Control Act 1961 (Act 122), which covers offences involving the hoarding or illegal sale of controlled subsidised goods, including diesel.
Under the law, individuals convicted can be fined up to RM1 million for a first offence and up to RM3 million for subsequent offences, or jailed for up to three years, or both. For companies, fines can reach up to RM5 million for repeat offences.
KPDN warned individuals and companies to comply with regulations and said it would continue working with other enforcement agencies to curb the misuse of subsidised goods.
