KOTA KINABALU: A local man was detained for illegally storing 2,200 litres of diesel worth RM10,830 in a case of abuse of controlled goods.
The Sabah Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry raided the storage at Kampung Bantayan, Inanam here on Monday (May 22) at 3pm, said its enforcement chief officer Zulfamy Mat Udi.
“Intelligence works were done for four days before the team made the bust.
“They found the diesel in a skid tank and drums, suspected meant to be sold to relevant industries, along with a rubber hose and electronic pump used in the illegal activity.
“The suspect, believed to be the owner of the stored goods in the location, was detained and his statements taken for investigation.
“Based on a preliminary probe, the suspect failed to provide an approval document and a valid licence to keep the controlled goods in that location,” he said in a statement here.
Zulfamy said the case will be investigated under Section 21 of the Control of Supplies Act 1961 (unlawful possession of controlled articles to raise suspicion that an offence is intended), read with Regulation 3(1) of the Control of Supplies Regulations 1974 (licence required for dealing in scheduled articles).
Investigations will also be done under Section 20(1) of the same Act for storing controlled articles in premises other than approved by the Controller.
He added that individuals found guilty under the Act could be fined not exceeding RM1mil while the next offence not over RM3mil, or jail term, not exceeding three years, or both.
For companies found guilty, the fine is up to RM2mil while the next offence is up to RM5mil.
Zulfamy urged the public with information of abuse of controlled goods to forward them to one of these channels - their WhatsApp 019-279 4317/019-848 8000, e-aduan.kpdn.gov.my portal, or call centre at 1-800-886-800.
“They can also email to e-aduan@kpdn.gov.my, or come to the nearest ministry office,” he added.
