132,000 litres of suspected smuggled diesel seized in Sibu joint operation
by Conny Banji · Borneo Post OnlineSIBU (April 6): A total of 132,000 litres of suspected smuggled diesel worth RM283,800 was seized during a joint operation by police and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) at a jetty in Ulu Lanang here last Friday.
Sibu police chief ACP Azari Miskon said the operation, conducted from 9.30am to 7.50pm, involved officers from the Special Branch E5 of the Sarawak contingent police headquarters, the Special Branch of the Sibu district police headquarters, and KPDN Sibu.
“The team raided and inspected a tugboat docked at a jetty in Ulu Lanang and found the diesel stored in nine tanks on board, with the fuel alone estimated to be worth RM283,800.
“The diesel is believed to have been brought in from outside for local distribution.
“The total value of the seizure, including the vessel and other items, is estimated at RM773,600.
“A local man in his 60s, who is the caretaker of the vessel, was also detained for suspected involvement in a syndicate smuggling subsidised diesel,” he said during a press conference here on Monday.
Azari said initial investigations revealed that the vessel had been docked at the jetty for about a month, allegedly due to engine problems while awaiting repairs before departing for the Solomon Islands.
He noted that Sibu has the potential to become a major hub for smuggling activities involving subsidised diesel, adding that leakage of such fuel is significant in Sabah and Sarawak due to their proximity to international waters.
He said further investigations, including into the ownership of the vessel, are ongoing in collaboration with KPDN, while urging the public to come forward with information on any smuggling activities.
The case is being investigated under Section 21 of the Supply Control Act 1961, and the suspect along with the seized items have been handed over to KPDN Sibu for further action.
Meanwhile, Sibu KPDN chief Roslee Masli said the department remains committed to strengthening strategic cooperation with enforcement agencies, including police, to curb the misappropriation of controlled goods, particularly subsidised diesel.
“Tough action will be taken against any parties involved in the misuse of government subsidies,” he said.
He also advised the public against panic buying, assuring that supply remains sufficient and under control while encouraging them to play a role in combating leakage and manipulation of subsidised goods.
Members of the public with information on suspicious activities can channel it to KPDN via WhatsApp at 019-848 8000, email at e-aduan@kpdn.gov.my, the call centre at 1-800-886-800 or through the Ez ADU KPDN mobile app.