KUCHING: An attempt to misappropriate subsidised diesel was foiled after the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Sarawak seized 10,000 litres of the fuel worth RM72,700 during a joint operation with police at a factory in Bintawa today.
KPDN Sarawak’s Director, Matthew Dominic Barin, said the operation, carried out under Ops Tiris 4.0 with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), was the result of several days of intelligence gathering.
“We successfully thwarted an attempt to misappropriate controlled subsidised goods. We seized 10,000 litres of diesel with an estimated value of about RM72,700,” he said at a press conference.
He added that one suspect has been detained and investigations are ongoing.
Initial checks found that the premises failed to produce a valid permit for storing controlled goods, with the case now being investigated under Section 21 of the Control of Supplies Act 1961 for possession under suspicious circumstances.
Matthew warned that stern action would be taken against those involved in illegal activities involving controlled goods, particularly diesel and petrol.
He also revealed that new control measures on diesel purchases came into force on April 1, including restrictions on purchases exceeding 20 litres outside vehicle tank capacity, as well as limits based on vehicle categories.
“We want to remind all parties not to be involved in such activities. At the same time, we urge the public to cooperate by channelling information to us if they come across suspicious activities,” he said.
Touching on supply concerns, he assured that there is no need for panic buying, stressing that fuel supply across Sarawak remains stable.
“There are currently 283 petrol stations operating in Sarawak, and supply is under control. The public should not panic as the situation is stable,” he added.
On enforcement performance, Matthew disclosed that from January 1, 2024, to April 1 this year, KPDN Sarawak recorded 308 cases involving controlled goods, with 6.7 million litres of diesel seized worth RM16.1 million.
“For this year alone, 42 cases have been recorded, involving seizures of 225,471.77 litres of petrol and diesel valued at RM501,139.56. The total value of seizures, including vehicles and other items, stands at RM3.42 million, with six individuals arrested,” he said.
The case remains under investigation, including determining the intended distribution of the seized diesel.
