A local man’s alleged attempt to illegally purchase and store subsidised diesel using a modified lorry came to an end after he was arrested during Op Tiris in Penampang.
During the special operation carried out by the Penampang District Police Headquarters (IPD), authorities also seized more than 300 litres of subsidised diesel along with a modified one-ton rigid lorry fitted with a canvas fuel tank.
Penampang police chief Sammy Newton said the 46-year-old suspect was detained following intelligence gathering and information related to the illegal misappropriation of controlled goods without a permit or approval from the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN).
He said officers and personnel from the Internal Security and Public Order Division (BKDNKA) of IPD Penampang had conducted surveillance at a petrol station in the district before arresting the suspect.
“Investigations found that the suspect was believed to be carrying out illegal purchases and collection of subsidised diesel using a lorry that had been modified,” he said in a statement.
Police also seized a bank card, a mobile phone, and several other items believed to have been used in the activity.
Sammy said the total value of the seized items was estimated at RM68,645.
The case is being investigated under Section 21 of the Control of Supplies Act 1961, and the suspect, along with the seized items, has been handed over to KPDN Sabah for further action.
He added that police will continue intensifying enforcement operations to combat the smuggling and misuse of controlled goods to safeguard public interests and national resources.
Members of the public with information related to such activities are urged to channel information to the authorities to assist enforcement efforts.
