Smuggling Attempt Foiled at West Port, Port Klang
Estimated Value of Seized Tobacco: RM614,868.22
Negeri Sembilan Customs (JKDM) has foiled a smuggling attempt at West Port, Port Klang, with the seizure of a container from India containing tobacco with an estimated value, including tax duty, of more than RM614,868.22.
Inspection Reveals Hidden Tobacco
According to Customs Director Muhammad Ilyas Queek Abdullah, a team from the Negeri Sembilan JKDM enforcement division conducted an inspection on a container from India at West Port in Port Klang on November 20 at 1 pm. The inspection revealed a total of 716 boxes or 3,580 kilogrammes (kg) of tobacco arranged in the inside of the container. The total estimated value was RM361,962.25, with unpaid duty of RM252,905.97.
Tobacco Importation Prohibited
Tobacco is a prohibited item and importation is subject to an import permit under Details of Section 66 | Third Schedule of the Customs Order (Prohibition on Import) 2023. The modus operandi of this syndicate was to make a false declaration that required an import permit.
Suspect Arrested and Items Seized
A suspect, a local man in his 30s, was arrested, and all the items in the case along with the container were seized in accordance with Section 114 of the Customs Act 1967 for further investigations.
Investigation Ongoing
The case is being investigated in accordance with Section 135(1)(e) of the Customs Act 1967. Muhammad Ilyas said the JKDM will continue to work closely with other agencies to combat smuggling and ensure that those involved in illegal activities are brought to justice.
Conclusion
The successful seizure of the container and the arrest of the suspect are a significant achievement for the Negeri Sembilan JKDM, and it serves as a warning to those who attempt to engage in illegal activities. The JKDM will continue to be vigilant and proactive in combating smuggling and ensuring that the country’s borders are secure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the estimated value of the seized tobacco, including tax duty?
A: The estimated value was more than RM614,868.22.
Q: How much unpaid duty was owed on the seized tobacco?
A: The unpaid duty was RM252,905.97.
Q: What was the total quantity of tobacco seized?
A: The total quantity was 3,580 kg.
Q: What is the current investigation status of the case?
A: The case is being investigated in accordance with Section 135(1)(e) of the Customs Act 1967.