PENAMPANG: The Sabah Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) busted an operation involved in the misappropriation of subsidised diesel in a raid on a premises in Kampung Sindaanan, Kobusak, Penampang.
The 6.53pm raid on Tuesday (July 15) led to the seizure of 16,180 litres of diesel, an Isuzu Trooper and various related equipment, with the total seizure value of RM53,527.
A local in his 30s, believed responsible for the operation, was detained to assist with investigations under the Supply Control Act 1961.
Initial investigation revealed that the premises did not have a valid licence or authorisation to store controlled goods.
The bust followed a week-long surveillance and tip-offs from the public, said KPDN Sabah in a statement.
The case is being investigated under Section 21 of the Supply Control Act 1961, Regulation 3(1) of the Supply Control Regulations 1974 for trading controlled items without a licence and Section 20(1) of the same Act for storing such goods at an unauthorised location.
Under the Act, individuals found guilty can face a fine of up to RM1 million, imprisonment of up to three years, or both, with heavier penalties for repeat offenders.
Companies, if convicted, face fines of up to RM2 million and up to RM5 million for subsequent offences.
KPDN reminded petrol station operators not to sell RON95 petrol or subsidised diesel to unlicensed buyers, warning that any retailer caught flouting the regulations will face enforcement under Regulation 21(1) and Regulation 12A of the Supply Control Regulations 1974.
The Ministry stressed that it would continue regular inspections and enforcement throughout Sabah to prevent abuse of subsidised fuel, which causes significant losses to the Government and the public.
From Jan 1 to July 16, KPDN Sabah has taken enforcement action in 1,179 cases, with total seizures amounting to RM22.2 million and RM276,250 in compounds issued.
In the same period, 1,112 consumer complaints were received, with 92.7 pc (1,031) resolved and 7.3 pc (81) still under investigation.
The Ministry also conducted 82,322 premise inspections, 62,307 in urban areas and 19,244 in rural locations.
The public is urged to continue acting as the Government’s eyes and ears by reporting any suspected misuse of subsidised goods, ensuring these abuses are stamped out completely.
