LAHAD DATU: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) foiled an attempt to smuggle out 1,520kg of rice to a neighbouring country in waters off Telukan Sibet, here, Friday.
Lahad Datu Maritime Zone Director, Commander Nik Mohd Rizam Nik Mohd Fauzi said, the seizure was made after MMEA apprehended two boats carrying rice without permit.
He said, acting on intelligence, MMEA during Op Pluto Timur was immediately mobilised to the location at about 1.35am.
Upon arrival, the team discovered two suspicious-looking pump boats and when approached, both boat skippers jumped into the water.
“Result of inspection on the boats found various brand of rice weighing about 1,520kg which was believe to be smuggled out to a neighbouring country.
“The boats as well as the seizure worth RM24,000 were taken to the jetty and handed over to the investigation officer,” he said.
Nik Mohd Rizam said, investigation is being carried out under the Customs Act 1967 and Control of Padi and Rice 1994.
In the meantime, MMEA call upon the community to provides cooperation by channelling any information on any criminal activities on the waters to Maritime Malaysia at 089-885727 (Lahad Datu Operation Centre) and MERS999.
