SEREMBAN: The Negeri Sembilan Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) has seized illegal cigarettes and liquor valued at more than RM2.13 million, including tax, following inspections conducted at 38 outlets across the state during the first three months of this year.
Its director Muhammad Ilyas Queek Abdullah said 26 locals aged between 35 and 56 were being investigated following the enforcement action, while two foreigners had been charged in court.
“All 38 outlets inspected were found to be selling cigarettes and liquor suspected of being prohibited imports under the Customs (Prohibition on Imports) Order 2023.
“The seizure comprised 96,879 packets, equivalent to 1.75 million cigarettes, and 26,375 cans or bottles (12,331.34 litres) of liquor, worth more than RM2.13 million including tax,” he said in a statement today.
Muhammad Ilyas Queek said the modus operandi involved outlet owners or employees discreetly selling illegal cigarettes and liquor to regular customers at prices well below market rates.
He said the items were confiscated under Section 114 of the Customs Act 1967, while that the case was being investigated under Section 135(1)(d) of the same Act.
He added that members of the public may report smuggling activities via the Customs toll-free line 1-800-88-8855, the public complaints website, or at the nearest customs office.-BERNAMA
