KOTA KINABALU: Marine police have thwarted an attempt to distribute RM1.2mil worth of contraband cigarettes in Sandakan.
Sabah Region Four Marine Police commander Asst Comm Ahmad Ariffin said over 1,800 boxes of smuggled goods were seized from a house at Taman Hing Lee at 5.30pm on Friday (May 24).
He said the contraband is believed to have been smuggled in from neighbouring countries and meant for distribution within the district and nearby areas.
The team seized 984,000 clove cigarettes or "kretek" of various brands.
“We also arrested a local man, believed to be the caretaker of the premises.
“Initial investigation revealed that the house was used for storing the contraband before it was sent for distribution,” said ACP Ahmad.
The case has been handed to the Sandakan police headquarters and will be investigated under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1976.
