JOHOR BARU: A total of 1,357 liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders were seized from a storage facility in Ulu Tiram suspected of being involved in illegal decanting activities.
Johor Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry director Lilis Saslinda Pornomo said the culprits are believed to have sold the LPG on the black market.
“Our officers found a tanker lorry believed to be filled with LPG, along with equipment used to transfer gas from domestic cylinders into the vehicle.
“Preliminary investigations suggest that the subsidised gas was being channelled into the lorry for unauthorised resale,” she told a press conference here on Tuesday (July 29).
She said the raid was carried out by the ministry's enforcement teams from Putrajaya and Johor.
“We detained five foreign men in their 30s and 40s, believed to be workers at the facility, to assist in investigations.
“The total value of the gas cylinders seized is estimated at RM280,000,” she added.
Lilis Saslinda said the case is being investigated under the Control of Supplies Act 1961.
“Individuals convicted under the Act can face a maximum fine of RM1mil or up to three years’ jail, or both. Repeat offenders may be fined up to RM3mil or face five years’ imprisonment.
“For companies, the offence carries a fine of up to RM2mil, and up to RM5mil for subsequent offences,” she added.
Investigations are ongoing to trace the source of the LPG and identify anyone else involved in the illegal supply chain.
