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The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDN) achieved a significant breakthrough by dismantling a diesel smuggling syndicate after intercepting a lorry in Sungai Petani. Affendi Rajini Kanth, the KPDN director for Kedah, revealed that the operation unfolded at 9:50 am when a two-ton lorry was noticed making repetitive diesel purchases at various petrol stations in the Sungai Petani area.
During surveillance, enforcement officers observed a distinct pattern as the lorry acquired RM200 worth of diesel at the initial station, followed by RM150 at the subsequent two stations before being apprehended. Upon closer inspection, authorities uncovered two 1,000-liter capacity tanks connected to two pumps and fuel hoses. These clandestine pumps were strategically installed to siphon fuel from the original tank into additional containers. The total amount of confiscated fuel reached 232 liters, equivalent to a value of RM500.
Affendi Rajini Kanth, in a released statement, highlighted that alongside the seized fuel, authorities confiscated the lorry, pumps, hoses, and tanks, estimating the total value of the seized equipment at RM16,500. The male driver, aged in his 40s, was promptly arrested and placed under remand for further investigation under the Control of Supplies Act 1961.
This successful operation underscores the unwavering commitment of the ministry to combat illegal activities and ensure strict adherence to regulations governing the control of fuel supplies. The elaborate scheme employed by the syndicate, involving multiple petrol stations and concealed equipment, highlights the challenges faced by authorities in curbing such illicit activities.
The arrest of the driver and the ongoing investigation reflect the determination to uphold the law and safeguard the integrity of the domestic fuel market. As the case progresses, authorities are likely to delve deeper into the syndicate's operations, aiming to prevent future instances of fuel smuggling. The swift and decisive action by the KPDN sends a strong message that illegal activities in the fuel sector will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will face legal consequences.
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