Customs Seize Over 6.2 Million Cigarette Sticks Worth RM4.2 Million in Two Separate Operations

First Seizure: Six Million Cigarette Sticks Valued at RM4 Million

The Kelantan Customs Department (Customs) seized six million white cigarette sticks, valued at over RM4 million, in a container at West Port, Port Klang, Selangor, on November 4. The container was intercepted by the department in collaboration with the Central Zone Customs Unit II (Selangor).

According to Director Wan Jamal Abdul Salam Wan Long, the syndicate had declared the cargo as merchandise in the shipping documents (Bill of Lading) and listed the Port of Discharge as Port Klang, utilising the cargo delivery service method. The seized cigarettes are believed to have originated in Cambodia, transported by sea before transiting at West Port, Port Klang.

“It is suspected that these cigarettes were imported from Sri Lanka, as such products are not available in our local market,” said Wan Jamal Abdul Salam during a press conference at the Kelantan Customs Enforcement branch.

The white cigarettes lacked the necessary importation documents to verify that tax or duty had been paid. The case remains under investigation, and no arrests have been made as of now.

Second Seizure: 254,800 Cigarette Sticks Valued at RM172,352.40

In a separate operation on November 10, Customs intercepted three vans in various areas of Kota Bharu and found 254,800 cigarette sticks, valued at RM172,352.40. The cigarettes were suspected to have been transported by road, using a lorry, and intended for the east coast market, particularly in Kelantan.

The cigarettes were found to bear counterfeit tax stamps. Three local men, aged between 30 and 47, were arrested to assist with the investigation.

Conclusion

The seizures highlight the ongoing efforts of the Customs Department to combat cigarette smuggling and tax evasion. The department will continue to work closely with other agencies to prevent the illegal trade of cigarettes and ensure that duty and tax are paid in accordance with the law.

FAQs

Q: Where were the cigarette sticks seized?

A: The cigarette sticks were seized in two separate operations: one at West Port, Port Klang, Selangor, and another in various areas of Kota Bharu.

Q: What was the value of the seized cigarette sticks?

A: The total value of the seized cigarette sticks was over RM4.2 million, comprising RM4 million from the first seizure and RM172,352.40 from the second seizure.

Q: Who were arrested in the second seizure?

A: Three local men, aged between 30 and 47, were arrested to assist with the investigation in the second seizure.

Q: What is the status of the investigation?

A: The cases remain under investigation, and no arrests have been made as of now.