SIBU: Customs officers uncovered a massive stash of contraband beer worth millions hidden in six containers during a raid on an unregistered warehouse along Lorong Ding Lik Kwong earlier this week.
Acting on information, the Malaysia Customs Enforcement Division with support from Sarawak Customs Enforcement Division and Customs Field Operations Combat Team (COBRA) raided the premises at around 12:05 am on November 24.
Deputy Director-General of Customs (Enforcement and Compliance), Siti Mang, said the team discovered the 20-foot containers stacked on trailers, which are reportedly hidden in a transit warehouse to avoid detection before distribution.
“Inside the containers were an estimated 104,544 litres of beer, believed to be illegal. Further investigations are underway to confirm the exact quantity, value, and duties involved,” she said.
Under Malaysian law, the import of beer requires a permit from the Customs Director-General, and all imported beer must bear the appropriate excise stamps.
The case is being investigated under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967, for possessing, storing, or protecting duty-not-paid or prohibited goods.
If convicted, offenders may be fined up to 20 times the value of the goods or RM500,000, or sentenced to prison for a term of up to five years, or both.
Siti urged the public to assist in combating smuggling activities, including alcohol, cigarettes, fireworks, drugs, and vehicles, and advised against involvement in such operations.
Those with information are encouraged to report any information on smuggling activities to the Customs toll-free line at 1-800-88-8855 or their nearest customs office.
