Illegal LPG storage premise raided in Negri Sembilan

KUALA PILAH: The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry (KPDN) seized 73 barrels of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at a premise on Jalan Tampin, near Kampung Bukit Temensu, here, yesterday morning.

The raid, conducted around 11.30am, also confiscated 49 empty LPG barrels for illegal storage at the premises, with a total seizure value of RM11,309.

KPDN state director Muhammad Zahir Mazlan stated that the raiding team discovered the gas barrels hidden at the back of the premises, presumably to avoid detection by authorities.

"The raid, which involved seven personnel, was carried out following a two-week investigation by enforcement officers regarding the suspected operation of an unlicensed LPG storage facility.

"A thorough inspection by the raiding team revealed the LPG barrels stored in a warehouse located at the back of the business premises, in an attempt to conceal the illicit activities from the authorities," he said in a statement today.

He mentioned that the owner of the premises was present during the raid but failed to produce a valid licence or any written authorisation from the KPDN.

He clarified that an investigation paper has been opened, and further investigations into the case will be conducted in accordance with the Supply Control Act 1961.

"If an individual is found guilty, they can be fined up to RM1 million or imprisoned for a maximum of three years, or both, for a first offence.

"If it involves a corporate body, they can be fined up to RM2 million. The scope of the investigation is also aimed at identifying the supply chain involved and examining the presence of any other irregularities.

"KPDN Negri Sembilan would like to warn all parties involved in controlled goods to comply with the enforced regulations," he added.