LIMBANG: The Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), in collaboration with several enforcement agencies, recently carried out a coordinated intelligence-led operation to dismantle a syndicate in the smuggling and processing of agarwood and illegal wildlife trade, with suspected international links.
Following an initial arrest in Miri on Nov 28, 2024, SFC launched a joint enforcement effort known as Operasi Bersepadu Khazanah, conducted from May 1 to 3. The operation involved 22 SFC personnel and 12 officers from Sarawak’s Special Branch.
“Raids were conducted at five different locations, successfully disrupting illegal activities involving wildlife trafficking and agarwood processing.
“Items confiscated included agarwood, hornbill feathers, bear gall bladders and claws, pangolin scales, foreign and local currencies, homemade firearms and ammunition, and a four-wheel-drive vehicle, with the total estimated value of the seizures reaching RM400,000,” the corporation said in a statement on Monday (May 5).
On the operation, SFC general manager Abang Arabi Abang Aimran said it reflects SFC’s unwavering commitment to combat wildlife crime and protect Sarawak’s natural heritage.
“We will not tolerate any party threatening the state’s biodiversity,” he stressed.
A total of nine suspects, including four foreign nationals, were arrested and brought to Limbang Police Station and the case is being investigated under the Wild Life Protection Ordinance (WLPO) 1998, while firearm-related offences have been referred to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).
The Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) is also involved in further investigations.
