Kota Kinabalu: Authorities uncovered a major false declaration scheme and seized frozen chicken products worth RM2.43 million at Sepanggar Port.
Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) Director-General Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said an inspection on Thursday (May 21) found a consignment in 14 containers, weighing a total of 404.2 tonnes, declared as potatoes and peas.
“The consignment is believed to have originated from China and Hong Kong.
“The goods, brought in under falsified Customs documentation, have also been packaged and ready to be sold in the local market,” he told a press conference at Sepanggar Port, Tuesday.
Shuhaily said the operation began on May 19 together with the Customs, Health Ministry, Sabah Veterinary Services Department (DVS) and port authorities.
He said the case was being investigated under Section 133(1)(a) of the Customs Act 1967 for making false certificates or documents, which carries penalties of up to a RM500,000 fine or five years’ jail, or both.
Shuhaily said AKPS has also identified 12 more containers suspected of using the same modus operandi, involving 348 tonnes of frozen chicken worth RM3.42 million.
“(The containers are) now under monitoring and enforcement action,” he said.
He stressed that AKPS would continue to work closely with Customs, the Health Ministry and port authorities to act against smuggling using false declarations, and would also strengthen border controls to safeguard national security.
“AKPS views seriously any attempt to illegally import merchandise through false declarations or regulatory violations at the country’s entry points.
“Enforcement and inspections will continue to be enhanced through integrated collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure border security and compliance with the law,” he said.
