Bid to smuggle rice and diesel foiled in Semporna
Published on: Thursday, February 15, 2024
By: Azmie Lim
The rice and other items seized from the two suspects
SEMPORNA: Marine police here detained two men and seized 30 packs of rice believed to be smuggled out to the neighboring country off Mataking sea om Tuesday.
It was learnt that, a team was patrolling in the areas about 7.40am when they spotted a pump boat in suspicious condition. They apprehended and inspected the boat which led to the discovery of 30 packs of rice containing 10kg rice each.
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Further inspection found that the boat skipper failed to produce a permit from the authorities.
Sabah MPF Region Four Commander, ACP Ahmad Ariffin said both suspects, aged 35 and 52, as well as seizures estimated worth RM7,240, including the boat, were taken to Semporna MPF jetty for further action.
Ahmad Ariffin said, the case will be referred to the Paddy and Rice Regulatory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
He also added that the case will be investigated under Control of Padi and Rice Act 1994 (Act 522).
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Meanwhile, MPF also detained two men and seized 12 gallons of diesel, believed to be smuggled out to neighbouring country, off Kampung Simunul waters, here, Monday.
The MPF team was patrolling during Ops Taring Gelora areas when they spotted a boat in a suspicious manner.
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Inspection discovered 12 jerry cans containing 30 litres of diesel each inside the boat.
The team detained the 28-year-old skipper and 18-year-old man.
ACP Ahmad said the arrest and seizures were taken to the MPF base for further action under the Control of Supplies Act 1961.
He added that the seizures, worth RM16,474, including the boat and its engine, will be handed over to the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) for further action.
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