The police have arrested two local men following a failed attempt to smuggle a haul of imitation firearms from Thailand through the Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security (ICQS) complex last Saturday.
Kubang Pasu District Police Chief, Superintendent Radzi Abdul Rahim, confirmed that the suspects, aged 21 and 27, were apprehended after enforcement officers intercepted a suspicious Perodua Myvi.
A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of an imitation M4A1 carbine rifle barrel and magazine concealed beneath the driver’s seat. Officers also found an imitation N4 rifle barrel with a magazine hidden under the front passenger seat.
Further inspection of the vehicle’s boot revealed an additional cache of illicit items, including eight boxes containing imitation pistols with magazines, four boxes of spare magazines, eight bags of plastic bead ammunition, and 10 gas canisters.
Investigations indicate that the 27-year-old suspect, a factory engineer based in Penang, was the primary individual behind the smuggling operation. His 21-year-old companion, who works as a food delivery rider, was reportedly accompanying him during the trip.
According to Superintendent Radzi, the engineer is believed to be a member of a private Telegram group consisting of 25 imitation firearm enthusiasts, where he allegedly advertised and accepted orders for the prohibited items.
The suspect had reportedly travelled to Hat Yai, Thailand, to procure the items for approximately RM6,500, with the intention of reselling them for a projected profit of RM2,000. Although the 27-year-old has no prior criminal record, this incident is believed to be his first attempt at smuggling such goods into the country.
Both individuals have been remanded for three days to facilitate further enquiries. The case is being investigated under Section 36 of the Arms Act 1960, which pertains to the illegal possession and importation of imitation firearms.
