KOTA KINABALU: A total of 33 people were arrested while about RM1.7mil worth of electronic cigarette devices and merchandise were seized in a joint operation carried out simultaneously across seven districts in Sabah.
Sabah General Operations Force Brigade Commander Senior Asst Comm Nor Omar Sappi said that 24 men and nine women were arrested during a simultaneous operation from 2pm to 8pm on Tuesday (Feb 10).
The raids were conducted in Kota Kinabalu, Tawau, Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Beluran, Keningau, and Semporna.
“We also seized 16,925 electronic cigarette and vape devices, 219,959 litres of e-liquid, and 95 other items, with an estimated total value of RM1,728,034,” he said in a statement here on Saturday (Feb 14).
The case is being investigated under Section 10(1) of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024, which provides for fines of up to RM20,000 for the first offence or RM30,000 for subsequent offences, imprisonment of up to two years, or both.
Additionally, he said investigations were being conducted under Sections 15 and 8 of the same Act relating to bans on advertising, promotion, and sponsorship of tobacco products, as well as Section 3(1) of the Trade Licensing Ordinance 1948.
He said the mega operation, known as Op e-CIG, was conducted by the Sabah General Operations Force (GOF) Brigade together with the state Health Department, Inland Revenue Board, Customs and local authorities.
“A total of 278 officers and personnel were involved, including 164 from the police, 53 from the Health Department, four from Customs and 55 from local authorities.
“All arrests and seizures have been handed over to the relevant agencies for further action, including investigation and prosecution.
“Such integrated operations will continue to address public health issues and combat the illegal sale and distribution of vape products.
“We also aim to protect young people from getting involved in vaping, which may contain prohibited substances such as cannabis,” ACP Nor Omar said.
