A courier van used in an alleged attempt to smuggle 2,560 vape units worth RM316,000 into Thailand through an illegal border crossing in Rantau Panjang was intercepted by the General Operations Force (PGA) during Op Taring Wawasan Kelantan on Sunday.
Southeast Brigade Commander SAC Ahmad Radzi Hussain said the seizure was made after PGA personnel stopped a suspicious Toyota Hiace van at a roadblock in Lalang Pepuyu at about 12.15pm.
A subsequent inspection of the vehicle uncovered boxes filled with vape products in various flavours, believed to have been destined for the neighbouring country.
Initial investigations revealed that the suspect admitted collecting the vape pods from the Tanah Merah area before planning to transport them into Thailand via an illegal jetty at Kampung Rahmat, Rantau Panjang.
Authorities noted that vape products are prohibited in Thailand, where their distribution, sale, possession and use are banned under local regulations. The continued demand for such products has made them a target for cross-border smuggling activities.
A 42-year-old local man, believed to be the driver of the van, was detained to assist with investigations.
Ahmad Radzi said the suspect and the seized items had been handed over to the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) in Tanah Merah for further action under Section 21 of the Supply Control Act 1961.
He added that the PGA will continue strengthening surveillance and enforcement along the country’s borders to curb smuggling activities and illegal cross-border movements through unauthorised routes.
