Domestic Trade Ministry's Sandakan branch records 15 cases of misappropriation
KOTA KINABALU: In the first four months of this year, the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry's Sandakan branch recorded 15 cases of misappropriation involving controlled goods.
The seizures, valued at RM1,302,073.20, were recorded between January 1 and April 25 and are currently under investigation and prosecution.
Chief enforcement officer Azdy Zukkry John said the items involved include liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), subsidised cooking oil, wheat flour, sugar, RON95 petrol, and diesel, believed to have been smuggled to neighbouring countries.
'We are intensifying our monitoring efforts to curb leakages of controlled goods in Sandakan waters through several upcoming Integrated Operations aimed at stamping out such offences in the district.
'KPDN Sandakan continues to work closely with other enforcement agencies, including the police, the Sandakan Marine Police Force, and the General Operations Force,' he said in a statement on Saturday (April 26).
Commenting on a recent integrated operation, Azdy said nine KPDN Sandakan enforcement personnel joined forces with the district marine police for a joint effort.
'The operation, which ran from 9pm to 2.30am, focused on inspections across Sandakan waters using marine police assets.
'We carried out checks in key areas, including the waters of Sungai Seguntor, the Tanah Merah coastline near Kampung Bokara, and several private jetties around Sandakan.
'Inspections of boats and vessels revealed no activities in breach of the Control of Supplies Act 1961,' he added.
Under the Control of Supplies Act 1961 (Act 122), individuals found guilty may be fined up to RM1mil, imprisoned for up to three years, or both.
'For second or subsequent offences, the penalty increases to a fine not exceeding RM3mil, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.
'In the case of companies, those found guilty may face a fine of up to RM2mil, while repeat offences could result in fines of up to RM5mil,' he said.
Azdy added that the ministry will continue enhancing the efficiency of its enforcement operations and strengthening strategic cooperation with other agencies.
'KPDN Sandakan also welcomes any information or complaints related to trader misconduct.
'Consumers can act as the eyes and ears of the ministry by channelling complete complaint details through our official reporting platforms,' he said.
Complaints can be submitted via WhatsApp at 019-848 8000, through the complaint portal at eAduan KPDN, by calling the hotline at 1-800-886-800, or by email at eaduan@kpdn.gov.my.
The public can also use the Ez ADU KPDN app, contact the Enforcement Command Centre at 03-8882 6088 / 6245, or submit official letters to their nearest KPDN office.
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