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IN a coordinated crackdown spanning five Malaysian states, authorities detained 51 individuals and confiscated 2,263 units of e-cigarettes along with 165.463 litres of e-liquid in a major operation targeting illegal vaping products.
The combined value of the seized items reached approximately RM1 million, with additional fines and compounds amounting to RM28,500.
Senior Assistant Commissioner Hakemal Hawari, Commander of the Central Brigade of the General Operations Force (PGA), said the raids began at 2pm on 10 February, involving 11 locations in Kuala Lumpur, four in Selangor, three in Negeri Sembilan, five in Melaka, and seven in Johor.
"Fifty-one individuals were inspected, comprising 44 locals and seven foreigners, including three Indonesians, two Bangladeshis, one Indian and one Myanmar national," Hakemal said during a press conference.
He added that two men in their 30s were arrested in the capital city for operating without proper permits and licences.
"The two suspects, a Bangladeshi and an Indonesian, were believed to be employed at the premises raided. They were detained for further action under Section 6(1)(c) and Section 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/1963," Hakemal explained.
The seized e-liquid is currently under analysis by the Ministry of Health (KKM) to determine its contents. KKM also issued 16 summonses while local authorities imposed 25 compounds.
"We believe these vaping devices and liquids were smuggled into the country and processed illegally. The syndicate is also suspected of using the nation’s waterways and several entry points from neighbouring countries," Hakemal added. - February 12, 2026