MIRI: The Marine Police Region 5 seized 24,000 litres of illegal diesel in Kuala Baram during an operation targeting the smuggling of controlled goods.
Its commander Asst Comm Ab Rahman Mat Hasan said the raid was conducted on Monday (May 5) under Ops Taring Landai by a team from the Marine Intelligence Unit and Region 5 Marine Police Force.
“The team conducted an inspection at the Million Line Tanker 1 Jetty operated by the Sarawak Rivers Board in Kuala Baram.
"During the inspection, they found a tanker vessel transferring diesel to a tanker lorry,” he said in a statement on Friday (May 9)
He said the ship’s captain and the lorry driver, who are Malaysian citizens, failed to produce any documentation from the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry permitting them to possess, store or transport the diesel, a controlled item.
"The team seized a ship, a tanker lorry and approximately 24,000 litres of diesel. The total value of the seizure is estimated at RM10,252,000," said ACP Ab Rahman.
The case is being investigated under the Control of Supplies Act 1961, which carries penalties of imprisonment, fines, or both for unauthorised possession, storage, or transportation of controlled goods upon conviction.
Additionally, the ship’s captain is facing multiple charges under the Sarawak River Ordinance 1993 for operating without a qualified master and failing to produce a river transport permit during inspection.
He is also being investigated under the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1960 for operating the vessel without a valid boat licence or a certified engine driver.
ACP Ab Rahman said the River Ordinance offences have been handed over to the Sarawak Rivers Authority, while those under the Merchant Shipping Ordinance have been referred to the relevant maritime authorities.
He urged the public to continue reporting suspicious activities to the police.
“We welcome any form of cooperation and information. Public involvement is vital in eradicating crime,” he added.
