MARINE POLICE STEP UP PATROLS, OPERATIONS AHEAD OF AIDILFITRI

ISKANDAR PUTERI, March 11 (Bernama) -- The Marine Police Force (MPF) has launched a nationwide special operation to curb smuggling and cross-border crimes in Malaysian waters during the upcoming Aidilfitri festive season.

Bukit Aman Marine Police deputy commander (Operations/Intelligence) ACP Zulkifli Mahmood said the operation involves patrols across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak to combat the smuggling of controlled items and contraband, as well as immigration-related offences.

He said the initiative is being carried out in collaboration with various agencies, including the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN), specifically for enforcement under the Control of Supplies Act 1961.

"Personnel have been reminded to execute their duties with high discipline and to maintain integrity at all times, particularly during enforcement at maritime borders," he said.

Zulkifli said this after attending a meeting and a breaking-of-fast session with the Singapore Police Coast Guard (SPCG) aboard the MPF patrol vessel PA14 in the West Johor Straits yesterday.

Also present were Region Two Marine Police commander ACP Noor Azman Jamal and Singapore Police Coast Guard commander SAC Ang Eng Seng.

Zulkifli said the majority of seizures recorded to date involved essential goods under the Control of Supplies Act 1961, such as diesel and petrol, as well as illicit cigarettes and other contraband.

"Current fuel prices have incentivised smugglers to seek illicit profits. Consequently, we will continue to intensify our enforcement efforts to thwart these activities," he added.

He said that despite the inherent risks of patrolling national maritime borders, MPF officers and personnel remain committed and prepared to handle any situation to ensure national security.

-- BERNAMA