IPOH: Police have arrested four local men and seized 135 heads of smuggled livestock in a special operation along Jalan Baling–Gerik.
The Northern Brigade General Operations Force (GOF) intelligence unit, carried out the operation, known as Op Taring Kandang on Sunday (Feb 8) with the cooperation of the Perak Veterinary Services Department and Gerik police.
GOF Northern Brigade commander Senior Asst Comm Balveer Singh Mahindar Singh said the suspects, aged between 23 and 35, were believed to be transporting cattle and goats from the east coast to the northern region without valid permits or written approval from the Veterinary Services Department.
“Checks on two lorries found 117 goats and 18 cattle,” he said in a statement on Sunday.
SAC Balveer Singh said initial investigations indicate the livestock were believed to have been smuggled from a neighbouring country through illegal border routes.
He said the drivers and attendants had covered the rear sections of the lorries with canvas, leaving only small openings at the top for ventilation.
“The four suspects are believed to have been carrying out the activity repeatedly over the past three months.
“Also seized were two lorries, with the total value of the confiscated livestock and vehicles estimated at RM686,300,” he said.
He added that the case has been handed over to the Perak Veterinary Services Department.
“Enforcement and patrols would be intensified across Perak, Penang, Kedah and Perlis to curb illegal activities.
“Those with information on unlawful activities are urged to contact the police to assist investigations,” he said.
