The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM) has thwarted a smuggling attempt involving 240,000 sticks of cigarettes worth an estimated RM162,000 including duties, following an operation at a jetty in Kampung Penambang, Kota Bharu.
Authorities discovered the contraband abandoned at the jetty and inside three multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) during the late-night operation conducted at around 10.22pm on Saturday under Op Naga 1/2024, Op Damai Siri 33/2026, Op Pelantar Merah 3/2023 and Op Tiris 4.0.
Kelantan APMM director Captain Maritime Kamal Mohamad said the operation began after enforcement officers detected a boat moving in darkness along Sungai Kelantan before it disappeared into a narrow stretch of the river around 9pm.
Subsequent checks at the location led to the discovery of the three MPVs — a Perodua Alza, Proton Exora and Nissan Grand Livina — which were also loaded with boxes of suspected smuggled cigarettes.
He added that the syndicate involved is believed to be made up of local individuals who frequently change their modus operandi and landing locations to avoid detection by authorities.
The case is being investigated under Section 135(1)(e) of the Customs Act 1967 for transporting and handling goods without duty payment.
APMM said enforcement operations will continue to be intensified to curb cross-border smuggling activities in coastal areas.
