GEORGE TOWN, September 29 – The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) successfully foiled two separate attempts to smuggle untaxed alcoholic beverages in operations at Bukit Mertajam and Westport, Port Klang. On September 1, 2024, customs officers raided a warehouse in Bukit Tengah, discovering 27,904 cans of beer and 3,441 bottles of liquor, valued at RM158,621.10 with unpaid duties totaling RM438,884.37.
Two suspects, aged 28 and 57, were arrested but later released on bail. A second operation on September 11 saw officers seizing 103,200 cans of beer from two containers in Westport, with the goods valued at RM438,600 and unpaid duties amounting to RM2,013,960. JKDM is also seeking the whereabouts of Mohamed Basith, who failed to appear in court for charges related to the possession of 178,000 illicit cigarettes.
The department urges the public to provide any information regarding his location, as Basith is believed to still be in Malaysia. JKDM remains committed to combating smuggling activities and encourages the public to report any illegal dealings.
