JKDM intercepts smuggled firecrackers, shisha flavours, and chewing tobacco worth over RM1.5 million in Selangor operations.
KLANG: The Malaysian Immigration Department (JKDM) has seized smuggled goods worth over RM1.5 million in a series of raids in Selangor. The illicit items included firecrackers, shisha flavours, and chewing tobacco.
Selangor JKDM director Mohamad Azhar Ahmad Paharazi detailed the operations at a press conference. The first discovery occurred on January 12 during a warehouse inspection in Puncak Alam.
Officers found a consignment of firecrackers valued at RM266,319. “The importation of firecrackers and fireworks is subject to import permits issued by the Home Ministry and the Royal Malaysia Police,” Mohamad Azhar stated.
A second raid on January 26 at Port Klang uncovered 13.17 tonnes of firecrackers worth RM279,588. This shipment had been falsely declared as party decorations for export to an Asian country.
Another inspection at Port Klang on January 13 led to the discovery of 2,880 kilogrammes of shisha flavours. The goods, valued at RM434,016, were believed to have been imported without a valid permit.
Authorities also seized 3,900 kg of chewing tobacco worth RM566,816 at Port Klang’s Northport. This consignment similarly lacked the required import permit.
All cases are being investigated under the Customs Act 1967. The relevant sections are 135(1)(a) and 133(1)(a) for smuggling and false declaration offences.