KPKM SEIZES 9,750 KG OF SMUGGLED THAI WHITE RICE IN SELANGOR RAID

PUTRAJAYA, Jan 17 (Bernama) -- The Padi and Rice Regulatory Authority (KPB) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) seized 9,750 kilograms of Thai White Rice with 5 per cent broken (TWR5) during a raid on a rice wholesaler's premises in Batu Caves, Selangor, yesterday.

In a statement today, KPKM confirmed the seizure took place at 10.30 am after KPB enforcement officers conducted a thorough inspection of the premises.

“The inspection followed intelligence indicating that the wholesaler was involved in the distribution of smuggled rice. Following checks, the wholesaler is suspected of violating Section 7(2) and Section 20 of the Control of Padi and Rice Act 1994 (Act 522),” said the ministry.

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Authorities seized the wholesaler’s rice trading licence, invoice copies, and documents from the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) to aid in the investigation and track the operation of the syndicate.

All seized items were brought to the KPB headquarters in Putrajaya for further investigation. If found guilty, the wholesaler could face penalties under Section 22(2) of the same Act, which provides for a fine of up to RM50,000.

KPKM stressed the importance of continuous enforcement to combat rice smuggling and fraudulent activities, which not only disrupt market stability and pricing but also harm consumers and local farmers.

The ministry also called on the public to report any information related to rice smuggling or illegal activities to the authorities, helping ensure the integrity and stability of the country’s rice supply chain.

-- BERNAMA