BAU: A local man’s attempt to smuggle 340 packs of onions imported from India into a neighbouring country was thwarted by the army yesterday (Mar 17).
The incident occurred around 11.15 am when soldiers from the First Infantry Division noticed a lorry acting suspiciously at Empaling oil palm plantation, about 400 metres from the Malaysia-Indonesia border.
A spokesman for the Army Eastern Field Command headquarters said the vehicle was intercepted as it appeared to be trying to enter Indonesia through an illegal route.
Inspections led to the discovery of 340 packs of onions imported from India in the cargo bed of the lorry.
The 47-year-old lorry driver was apprehended for investigation. The total value of the seizure, including the Mitsubishi Fuso lorry, is estimated at RM158,960.
A police report was filed at the Bau police station and the seized items were handed over to Kuching Customs for further action.
The army reiterated its commitment to fortify border control measures at the Malaysia-Indonesia border, ensuring the safeguarding of the state’s sovereignty against illegal entries, smuggling, and cross-border criminal activities.
