KUALA LUMPUR: The Terengganu Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry has seized two ships and two tanker lorries loaded with a total of 27,000 litres of diesel worth RM1.7 million during a raid near Sungai Kuang, Chukai, Kemaman.
Terengganu Domestic Trade and Cost of Living director Saharuddin Mohd Kia said the operation was conducted at approximately 5am today involving nine KPDN enforcement officers and eleven policemen.
He said seven local men, aged between their 30s and 40s, and one Indonesian were detained to assist with investigations.
"The raid was the culmination of a two-week surveillance effort targeting illegal fuel activities in the area.
"Preliminary investigations revealed that the syndicate purchased diesel in open waters using tugboats.
"The fuel was then transferred to tanker lorries for resale on the black market," he said in a statement.
Saharuddin added that at the time of the raid, an estimated 10,000 litres of diesel had already been moved from the ships to the lorries using rubber hoses.
"Further checks indicated that none of the vessels or vehicles possessed the required permits or authorisation from the Controller of Supply to handle controlled goods such as diesel.
"The total value of the seized items is estimated at RM1.7 million."
An investigation paper has been opened under the Supply Control Act 1961.
Saharuddin warned that the ministry would not compromise with any parties involved in such illegal activities.
Under the Supply Control Act 1961 (Act 122), individuals found guilty can face fines up to RM1 million for the first offence and up to RM3 million for subsequent offences, or imprisonment not exceeding three years, or both.
Companies can be fined up to RM2 million for the first offence and up to RM5 million for subsequent offences.
"The public is urged to act as the eyes and ears of the authorities by reporting any information on the misappropriation of subsidised controlled goods," he said.
Information can be reported through the following channels:
WhatsApp at 019-848 8000, the ministry's e-Complaint Portal at http://eaduan.kpdn.gov.my, call centre at 1-800-886-800, Ez ADU KPDN Mobile App, or the Enforcement Command Centre at 03-8882 6245 / 6088.