KUCHING : The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) Sarawak has arrested six locals and seized 12,000 litres of subsidised diesel amounting to RM26,000.
Its director Matthew Dominic Barin said the operation, termed ‘Op Tiris,’ resulted in the seizure of a bonded lorry and a tanker truck, estimated at a total value of approximately RM115,000.
“The case is being investigated under Section 20 (1), Control of Supplies Act 1961, for possession of controlled items without the controllers permission.
“Throughout the year 2023, from January 1 to December 31, 2023, KPDN Sarawak has produced a total of 233 cases under the Control of Supplies Act 1961 with a seizure value of RM 12,045,688.15 and a compound value of RM 827,000.00,” he said in a statement today (Jan 6).
In addition, Matthew said KPDN Sarawak enforcement officers have conducted 991 inspections on petrol stations and diesel fuel wholesalers throughout the state since March 1, 2023 under ‘Ops Tiris’.
“Inspections are carried out to ensure that the traders involved would comply with the Control of Supplies Act 1961 and the regulations under it.
“Further investigation will be carried out under the Control of Supplies Act 1961 to identify individuals or companies involved in the activities or distribution chain of diesel including sources of diesel obtained and distribution of any irresponsible parties,” he said.
Matthew also urged the public to play an active role in curbing illegal activities related to controlled and subsidised goods by providing information or tips to the ministry through WhatsApp at 019-2794317/019-8488000 or via the e-Aduan KPDN portal at http://e.aduan.kpdn.gov.my.
