KOTA KINABALU: Enforcement officials have seized frozen food worth RM20.8mil in seven districts during an integrated operation.
In the simultaneous raids that took place from 8am to 6pm on Thursday, General Operations Force (GOF) officers found frozen items such as chicken and beef, which are believed to be smuggled goods, in the state capital, Tawau, Sandakan, Beluran, Keningau, Lahad Datu and Kunak.
Sabah GOF brigade commander Senior Asst Comm Nor Omar Sappi said 21 people, aged between 22 and 40, had been arrested to assist investigations, adding that 17 of them are Malaysians.
He said they would be investigated for various offences under the Animal Enactment 2015, Food Act, Food Regulations 1985, Trades Licensing Ordinance 1948, 1981 By-Laws and Food Hygiene Regulation 2009.
SAC Nor Omar said the confiscated items had been handed over to agencies in charge for further action.
The police, he added, would continue to enforce laws to ensure that food operators and premises abide by the regulations.
“This is to prevent the sale of food with dubious halal and cleanliness status, more so during this season where Muslims observe their fasting month ahead of Hari Raya,” he said.
The raids, he said, involved 204 officers and personnel from various agencies, including the Sabah Department of Veterinary Services and local authorities.
