BELURAN: Sabah Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs cracked down on the misappropriation of subsidised fuel at Kampung Iran here.
State director Georgie Abas said during the raid at 2.33pm yesterday, the team found 15,000 litres of diesel fuel in a tanker truck and barrels meant to be sold to the industry.
They also confiscated tools, two lorries, electronic pumps and hoses with a total value of RM159,500.
Two local men, who are believed to be the storekeeper and truck driver, were also arrested for further investigation.
Based on initial investigation, both men failed to submit any authorisation and licence documents to store controlled items at the location
Georgie said the case would be investigated under Section 21 of the Control of Supply Act 1961 for possessing controlled goods with the intention of committing an offence which would be read together with Regulation 3(1) of the Control of Supply Regulations 1974 for conducting controlled goods transactions without a licence.
An investigation will also be conducted under Section 20(1) of the same act for keeping controlled items in a place without permission.
Under the Supply Control Act 1961 (Act 122), any individual convicted of an offence can be fined not more than RM1 million, while for subsequent offences not exceeding RM3 million or imprisonment not exceeding three years or both.
As for the company, if found guilty can carry a fine not exceeding RM2 million, while for subsequent offences not exceeding RM5 million.
"The ministry will also take strict action by temporarily suspending the licence of the gas station operator involved until the investigation is completed.
"Sabah authority will continue to carry out continuous inspections and monitoring of all activities related to controlled goods in the state to prevent any form of abuse of the controlled goods."
He also urged the public to channel complaints to the ministry through Whatsapp at 019-279 4317 / 019-848 8000 or e-aduan.kpdnhep.gov.my.