KUCHING: The Sarawak Marine Police Region 5 in Limbang arrested an Indonesian national and seized undeclared illegal firecrackers worth RM21,526,500 during an operation at the Lawas wharf on January 12.
In a press statement, Sarawak Police Chief Dato Mancha Ata stated that, acting on intelligence during Op Taring-Pensura, a combined team from the Marine Intelligence Unit (URM) and patrol boat PSC 8 conducted an inspection of a cargo ship named Tung King 11, operated by an Indonesian captain.
Upon inspection, the team discovered 100 boxes of various firecrackers suspected to have been imported illegally into Malaysia.
The ship’s captain failed to produce valid customs documentation for the consignment, thus violating Section 8(a) of the Explosives Act 1957, which prohibits unauthorized possession or storage of explosives.
Dato Mancha said that the operation underscores the police’s commitment to maintaining safety and ensuring compliance with the law.
The suspect and seized items were handed over to the Lawas CID department for further investigation.
An offence under Section 8(a) of the Explosives Act 1957 carries severe penalties, including imprisonment of up to seven years, a fine of up to RM10,000, or both.
Dato Mancha also emphasized the importance of vigilance against illegal activities that could endanger public safety, particularly during the festive season when such items are in high demand.
By Connie Chieng