SEMPORNA: Marine police intercepted an attempt to smuggle petrol out of the country through Pulau Omadal and Tanjung Pantau Pantau waters on Monday night.
The operation, carried out simultaneously in Semporna and Sandakan at around 8pm, led to the detention of a boat and the arrest of a foreign suspect in Semporna, said Sabah Region 4 Marine Police Force Commander, ACP Mohd Nazri Ibrahim.
During the Semporna operation, authorities seized 5,400 litres of diesel and 51 jerry cans containing petrol.
Meanwhile, in Sandakan, two local men were arrested in an operation at Jalan Cecily, Sibuga.
Authorities confiscated a tanker lorry, a four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle, and two skid tanks, believed to be used for the illegal distribution of subsidised diesel.
The total estimated value of the seizures from both operations is RM482,672.25.
ACP Mohd Nazri said the cases are being investigated under the Control of Supply Act 1961.
“The Sabah Region 4 Marine Police Force remains committed to intensifying efforts to combat smuggling activities to safeguard the nation’s security and welfare,” he added.
He also urged the public to cooperate by reporting any suspicious activities that violate national laws.
