Police Crack Down on Smuggling of Iron and Metal Products
Operation Targets Companies Supplying Construction Sector
In a coordinated effort with the Construction Industry Development Board and the environment department, the police have arrested six individuals and confiscated goods worth RM113 million in raids on seven companies in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur suspected of smuggling iron and metal products from abroad.
Those Detained
According to Bukit Aman internal security and public order department director Azmi Abu Kassim, the six individuals detained in the raids last Friday comprised two local men, one local woman, and three foreign men, aged between 33 and 50. The locals were company owners and managers, while the foreigners were their workers.
Raids Yield Impressive Results
The operation targeted companies supplying iron and metal products to the construction sector. Inspections uncovered various offences, including failure to present valid standard compliance documents for imported iron and metal products intended for the construction industry. The raids also uncovered various metal products classified as end products without valid compliance documents certified by the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) for domestic construction use.
Semi-Finished Products Seized
Semi-finished iron and metal products suspected to have been illegally imported were also seized. The confiscated items include operational equipment, various types of metal products, 8,939 tonnes of industrial iron and steel, five containers, 12 forklifts, 40 gas cylinders, and 61 different machines used for processing iron and steel.
Remand and Bail Arrangements
Azmi said that the woman was released on police bail, while the two local men were remanded for one day and released after questioning. The three foreign men have been remanded until February 4.
Conclusion
The police’s robust efforts to combat smuggling and ensure the construction industry receives only legitimate and compliant products will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the sector. It is essential for companies to adhere to regulations and ensure that their products meet the necessary standards to avoid legal consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the operation conducted by the police?
The operation was conducted in collaboration with the Construction Industry Development Board and the environment department to target companies supplying iron and metal products to the construction sector. - How many individuals were detained in the raids?
Six individuals were detained, consisting of two local men, one local woman, and three foreign men. - What was the value of the goods confiscated?
The goods confiscated were worth RM113 million. - What types of products were seized?
The seized items included operational equipment, various types of metal products, 8,939 tonnes of industrial iron and steel, five containers, 12 forklifts, 40 gas cylinders, and 61 different machines used for processing iron and steel.