KUCHING: The Sarawak Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KDPNHEP) have arrested two locals and seized over RM70,000 worth of diesel today (Oct 17).
Its director Matthew Dominic Barin, when met by reporters at Jalan Stephen Yong today, said the operation was carried out after a public complaint followed by a two-month intelligence operation.
“We managed to seize a lorry, 34 intermediate bulk containers containing 34,000 litres of diesel and an oil suction pump.
“The diesel is worth around RM73,100 and the total seizure value is RM163,800.
“Two locals were arrested during the operation and they will be investigated under Section 20 (1) of the Control of Supplies Act 1961, for possessing controlled goods in a place not licensed by the supply controller,” he said.
If convicted, the suspects will be fined up to RM2 million for the first offence and fined up to RM5 million for the second offence if they are a corporation.
Individuals, on the other hand, can be fined up to RM1 million for the first offence or sentenced to jail not more than three years or, both and; a fine up to RM3 million for the second offence or sentenced to jail for a term up to five years or both.
Matthew disclosed that to date, the ministry has recorded a total of 148 cases under the Control of Supplies Act 1961.
“A total of 1,382,860.65 litres of diesel valued around RM5,836,857 were recorded while compounds valued at RM339,800 have been paid and 44 cases were completed,” he said.
The ministry is issuing stern warnings to any individual and company not to be involved or conspire by engaging in smuggling activities and hiding controlled or subsidised goods to avoid actions by the authorities.
Matthew advised the public to be the eyes and ears of the authorities by providing any information regarding such illegal activities to ensure that these activities are eradicated.
Information can be channelled via WhatsApp at 019-279 4317 or 019-848 8000, or through the complaint portal at e-aduan.kpdnhep.gov.my; or through the call centre at 1-800-886-800; or through email at e-aduan@kpdnhep.gov.my.
