SEMPORNA: A total of 2,425 litres of petrol were seized during Ops Tiris 4.0 off Terumbu Pasalat, in front of Pulau Igang-Igang, on Thursday.
The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Semporna said the seizure was carried out by the Semporna Marine Police Force before being handed over to the ministry.
The petrol, stored in 97 jerry cans, is believed to have been smuggled to a neighbouring country.
Authorities also confiscated a wooden boat with an engine, believed to have been used to transport the petrol.
“All the seizures were estimated to be worth RM19,275, including the controlled items valued at RM9,869.75. An investigation has been opened under the Control of Supplies Act 1961 for further action,” the ministry said.
KPDN Semporna warned that individuals or companies must comply with all rules and regulations to avoid legal consequences.
Advertisement
Under Act 122, individuals may face fines of up to RM1 million for a first offence and up to RM3 million or imprisonment for not more than three years, or both, for subsequent offences.
Companies may be fined up to RM2 million for a first offence and up to RM5 million for subsequent offences upon conviction.
The public is encouraged to report any misappropriation of controlled and subsidised goods to the ministry via WhatsApp at 019-848 8000, the call centre at 1-800-886-800, or through the Ez ADU KPDN application.
