OP LOGING: KELANTAN CUSTOMS SEIZE SMUGGLED CIGARETTES WORTH MORE THAN RM300,000

KOTA BHARU, Dec 4 (Bernama) -- The Kelantan Customs Department detained 10 individuals and seized various types of smuggled cigarettes worth RM315,708 during Operation Loging conducted in several areas in the state.

Its Director, Wan Jamal Abdul Salam Wan Long, said the operation, carried out by the state Enforcement Branch Operations Team, was implemented from Nov 10 to 13 and involved 16 separate locations.

"Following inspections, we seized smuggled cigarettes valued at RM73,062.36 with estimated duties and taxes of RM242,646.39, bringing the total value of the seizure to RM315,708.75," he said in a statement today.

He added that the syndicate is believed to have hidden the cigarettes behind counters, in hidden storage spaces, and abandoned houses before selling and distributing them to customers.

"This case is being investigated under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967. If convicted, offenders face a fine of between 10 to 20 times the value of the goods or between RM100,000 to RM500,000, and can be imprisoned for up to five years, or both, for the first offence," he said.

Wan Jamal also urged the public to help combat smuggling, including cigarettes, liquor, firecrackers, drugs, and vehicles, as these activities not only cause losses in national revenue but also threaten the safety and well-being of the people.

"Information related to smuggling can be channelled through the Customs Toll-Free Line 1-800-88-8855 or the nearest customs office. The identity of the informant is guaranteed to be kept confidential," he said.

-- BERNAMA