SEVERAL recycling centres and metal trade workshops in Ampang Jaya, Selangor, were caught off guard as authorities swooped in for surprise inspections.
The joint operation, led by Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) and Hulu Langat branch of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN), resulted in six seizures for various offences.
The operation, carried out with officers from Ampang Jaya police, was carried out in Pandan Indah and Ampang Campuran.
“The operation involved inspections of seven business premises engaged in the metal trade and recycling.
“Besides the seizures, five compounds were issued for offences such as operating without a licence and obstructing public pathways,” MPAJ said in a statement.
Enforcement action was taken under MPAJ’s by-laws and the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974.
Among the other offences identified were premises using or possessing unverified weighing or measuring instruments.
This led to KPDN Hulu Langat issuing three compounds for violations under the Weights and Measures Act 1972.
Under the law, anyone who uses or possesses an unverified, unstamped, uncertified or unauthenticated weighing or measuring instrument for trade commits an offence.
Upon conviction, they may face a fine of up to RM4,000, up to three years in prison or both, and the instrument may be forfeited.
MPAJ said it would continue periodic inspections with various agencies to ensure business compliance and prevent unlicensed operations within the municipality. ― By SHALINI RAVINDRAN
