IPOH: Some 168 animal parts, believed to be those from crocodiles, have been seized by the General Operations Force (GOF) during a joint operation, codenamed Operasi Bersepadu Khazanah, in Kampar.
GOF Northern Brigade commander Senior Asst Comm Balveer Singh Mahindar Singh said the animal parts were found at a cold storage business premises during the operation at about 4pm on Friday (Jan 16).
He said a man, in his 30s, has been arrested on suspicion of being involved in illegal animal parts exploitation activities.
"The animal parts are believed to be worth about RM20,000.
"Investigations found that the animal parts are believed to be sourced from a supplier in Puchong, Selangor," he said in a statement on Saturday (Jan 17).
"The modus operandi involved procuring the animal parts before distributing them to restaurants in the area according to demands.
"Investigations also found that the business premises have been running this activity since 2024," he added.
SAC Balveer Singh said the man has been handed over to Perak Perhilitan to be investigated under Section 68 of the Wildlife Conservation Act, which carries a penalty of imprisonment up to three years and a maximum fine of RM500,000.
"The GOF will continue to collaborate closely with Perhilitan to monitor and have joint patrols in Perak, Penang, Kedah and Perlis, to deter and combat against any illegal activities.
"Those with information about any illegal activities can forward them to the GOF Northern Brigade at 05-540 6666," he added.
