BUKIT KAYU HITAM: The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) has thwarted an attempt to smuggle nearly 100 tonnes of rice worth almost RM640,000.
The contraband was intercepted at the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex (ICQS) in Bukit Kayu Hitam here on Tuesday (Feb 10).
AKPS Bukit Kayu Hitam commander Senior Asst Comm Mohd Nasarudin M. Nasir said two container lorries were inspected at about 4pm at Block E3 of the ICQS inbound lane, based on intelligence received.
He said inspections of both vehicles found undeclared rice hidden inside their containers, believed to be an attempt to evade checks at the entry point.
"We uncovered 49,950kg of rice in each trailer, bringing the total seizure to 99,900kg.
"The rice was estimated to be worth RM639,400, while the two container lorries, valued at about RM420,000, were also seized," he said in a statement on Wednesday (Feb 11).
The case is being investigated under Sections 20 and 21 of the Control of Padi and Rice Act 1994.
SAC Nasarudin said the matter has been handed over to the Kedah Padi and Rice Regulatory Authority for further action, with investigations into the agents or companies involved ongoing. – Bernama
