MIRI: Enforcement agencies have stepped up pressure on the e-cigarette trade here, seizing an estimated RM500,000 worth of vape products during large-scale joint operations aimed at stamping out breaches of public health laws.
The operations, carried out on Monday, brought together the Miri Division Health Office, 12th Battalion of the General Operations Force, Miri Police and Miri City Council in a coordinated show of force against non-compliant operators.
A total of 30 enforcement officers were deployed in what officials described as targeted and intelligence-driven operations to ensure strict compliance with the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024, also known as Act 852.
Several premises selling e-cigarette products across the city were inspected.
Four outlets were subsequently raided after officers detected offences under the Act.
Various types of vape products suspected of violating legal requirements were seized and taken in for further investigation.
Three offence notices were issued under Section 15(1) of Act 852, primarily for failure to comply with mandatory packaging and labelling standards.
Authorities said further action, including prosecution, will be considered once investigations are completed.
All seized items have been formally recorded and will be processed in accordance with existing legal procedures.
Health authorities said the operations send a clear signal that enforcement would be stepped up and carried out without warning.
Monitoring activities will continue as part of an ongoing effort to ensure operators adhere to licensing conditions and regulatory standards.
Officials stressed there would be no leniency for businesses found flouting the law.
Operators who fail to comply risk seizure of goods, financial penalties and court action.
The Miri Division Health Office said it remains fully committed to safeguarding public health and curbing the sale and distribution of illegal or non-compliant e-cigarette products in the city, adding that similar operations are expected to continue in the coming months.
