KOTA BARU: The Southeast Brigade of the General Operations Force (GOF) seized a lorry carrying 4,000 bougainvillaea saplings, worth RM470,000, during an inspection along Jalan Bukit Lata, near Jeram Perdah, Pasir Mas, on Saturday (July 5).
Its commander Datuk Nik Ros Azhan Nik Ab Hamid (pic) said that the seizure was made by a team from the 3rd Battalion while conducting Ops Taring Wawasan Kelantan at about 10.10am.
"An inspection of the lorry led to the discovery of the ornamental plants. The 35-year-old lorry driver was believed to be on his way to deliver the plants to a local nursery when he was arrested," he said in a statement on Sunday.
The seized plants were believed to contain pests and diseases, he added.
"The seized items have been handed over to the Kelantan Agriculture Department for further action. The case is being investigated under Section 6 of the Plant Quarantine Act 1976," he said.
He added that the authorities would continue to strengthen monitoring and enforcement efforts to curb activities which could threaten the country's agricultural security. - Bernama
