Negri cops destroy over RM6mil in contraband, bitcoin mining machines

Some of the contraband was destroyed at the state police contingent.

SEREMBAN: Negri Sembilan police have destroyed contraband and other seized items from 37 cases, including equipment used for cryptocurrency mining, worth some RM6.25mil.

Deputy state police chief Senior Asst Comm Abd Khalid Othman said the contraband, which included liquor, beer and cigarettes, was destroyed as the cases which were reported between 2018 and 2021 have been disposed of by the courts.

"We have also received orders from the courts and the deputy public prosecutor to destroy the seized items.

"They were taken during 19 operations against contraband smuggling and 18 against illegal bitcoin mining," he said.

The contraband was worth RM3.75mil while the bitcoin mining machines, including computers and modems, were valued at RM2.5mil.

A total of 38 suspects were detained in the operations.

The cases were probed under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967 for being in possession of contraband, Section 427 of the Penal Code for committing mischief and Section 37 of the Electricity Supply Act 1990 for electricity theft.

SAC Abdul Khalid said the items had to be destroyed to free up space in police stores statewide.

He added that police would continue to pursue the resolution of such cases to ensure that stores, including at district headquarters, were not filled with seized material.

He also hoped the public would continue to do its part by providing the police with information on such clandestine activities.

"On our part, we will continue to take proactive and effective measures against these activities.

“This includes acting against any officer who conspires to protect such illegal activities," he said.