The Penang Customs Department thwarted an effort to smuggle cigarettes worth over RM400,000 in a container during an operation at West Port, Port Klang on October 26.
Hamisan Kalip, the State Customs director, stated that a logistics company director was arrested during the operation, which was conducted by the Customs enforcement and narcotic division at around 3.15 pm on October 26.
Hamisan revealed, “During the operation, a thorough inspection of the container uncovered 1,832 boxes labeled as “Instant Noodles” containing cigarettes hidden amongst instant noodles. The cigarettes had a value of approximately RM461,721.60, and the total tax amounted to RM3,698,390.02 (RM3.7 million).” This information was shared during a press conference at the state Customs enforcement office on Friday, November 3.
Initial findings indicate that the container was handled by a shipping and logistics company with a branch office in Port Klang. Further investigation also revealed that the goods originated from West Asian countries.
Hamisan also detailed the smuggling syndicate’s modus operandi, explaining that they would declare the items as instant noodles in the Bill of Lading and Import Manifest, while concealing contraband cigarettes in boxes labeled as instant noodles.
The suspect, a 54-year-old, was released on bail. The investigation is ongoing to identify other individuals involved in the smuggling activities,” Hamisan stated.
Additionally, the customs department believes that the confiscated items were intended for local distribution.
The case is currently being investigated under Section 135(1)(e) and Section 135(1)(g) of the Customs Act 1967.
