SEMPORNA: Marine Police Force (PPM) here confiscated 449 bags of rice from a boat off Tobo-Tobo waters, here, Thursday.
PPM personnel were patrolling during Op Taring Gelora when they spotted a suspicious boat about 1.30am.
The team approached the boat and introduced themselves before inspecting the boat. Three individuals, including the boat skipper, were onboard.
Further inspection also found 449 bags of Kapal Super brand rice weighing 4,490kg hidden inside the boat, believed to be smuggled out to a neighbouring country.
Sabah Region Four PPM Commander, ACP Ahmad Ariffin confirmed the arrest and seizure.
He said the boat skipper failed to produce an authorisation letter from the authorities.
“The three individuals and seizures worth RM26,347.50 were taken to Semporna PPM base for further action,” he said, adding that the offence committed was under the Paddy and Rice Control Act 1994 (Act 522).
