KUALA LUMPUR: The Customs Department seized more than RM23 million worth of smuggled fireworks, firecrackers and liquors during a series of operations held nationwide in conjunction with the Deepavali celebration.
The contrabands were confiscated from 3,380 inspections in the form of raids, road blocks and patrols on the nation’s land and waters held during the operation dubbed as Ops Deepavali.
The 28-day long operation, which was launched on Oct 15 ended today.
Its deputy director-general Datuk Azimah Abd Hamid said a total of 382 investigation papers were opened from the 389 cases involving various offences uncovered during the massive operation.
“A total of RM539,354 worth of compounds involving 170 cases were issued to offenders.
“Investigation is on-going for the remaining 186 cases,” she said in a statement today, adding that the value of the unpaid taxes for the contraband is RM22.5 million.
She added 22 of the cases involved the seizure of 1,057kg of various brands of firecrackers and fireworks worth RM17,252.
“A total of 119 cases involved the seizure of 231,460.89 litres of alcoholic beverages worth RM1.65 million,” she said.
During the operation, she said the department also seized more than 26 million sticks of contraband cigarettes worth RM1.8 million and RM13.9 million in unpaid taxes.
“More than RM340,000 worth of compounds were issued involving 87 cases of smuggled cigarettes. The remaining 115 cases are still being investigated,” she said.
Azimah said the operations, which were simultaneously held at several locations around the country, were conducted to prevent supply of contrabands during festive celebrations.
“The department is very serious in our effort to combatting any form of smuggling activities.
“The nationwide operation also reflects our strength in conducting raids as well as taking legal actions against irresponsible quarters responsible for smuggling activities or tried to evade from paying duties and taxes,” she said