KUCHING: A total of 21 successful operations were recorded by the Sarawak Brigade of the General Operations Force (GOF) under Ops Taring Alpha, Ops Taring Bravo, Ops Taring Chiller and Ops Taring Batas/Awas between March 16 and 31, with total seizures estimated at RM9.49 million.
Sarawak Brigade GOF Commander, SAC Lim Bak Phai, said the achievements reflected the unit’s continued commitment in curbing cross-border smuggling activities and ensuring public safety and order.
“This success proves the continuous commitment of the GOF in combating smuggling activities at the border and ensuring that public safety and order are always preserved,” he said in a statement.
He added that among the major successes was the bust of a large-scale drug smuggling activity involving the seizure of 28 kilogrammes of crystal-like substances believed to be methamphetamine and 1,250 grammes of vape cartridges suspected to contain cannabis liquid, with a total estimated value of RM1.58 million.
“Two Indonesian men were arrested in connection with the case, which is being investigated under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
“In addition, the operations also uncovered cases involving the misappropriation and smuggling of controlled and untaxed goods, including subsidised diesel, coarse sugar, cooking oil, frozen products, alcoholic beverages and cigarettes without valid documents or permits,” he said.
In the meantime, he said that such activities were detected to be carried out using premises, storage facilities and vehicles for transportation and distribution purposes.
“Several local and foreign individuals were also detained throughout the operations for further investigation.
“All arrests and seized items have been handed over to relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN), Royal Malaysian Customs Department, Department of Veterinary Services as well as the respective district police headquarters for further action under existing laws,” he said.
Lim stated that from January 1 to March 31 this year, the Sarawak Brigade GOF recorded a total of 182 cases with seizures amounting to RM117.47 million and 168 arrests, comprising 127 locals and 41 foreigners.
Lim stressed that firm action would continue to be taken against any parties involved in smuggling and misappropriation of controlled goods without compromise.
