Two men’s first attempt at smuggling alcoholic beverages from Thailand ended in failure after they were arrested by the General Operations Force (GOF) while transporting a Toyota Hilux loaded with liquor and beer worth RM103,500 in Cabang Empat Salam, Rantau Panjang, on Tuesday.
The suspects, aged 23 and 33, were detained after their vehicle was stopped and inspected during a roadblock operation at about 6.30am.
Southeast Brigade GOF commander Ahmad Radzi Hussain said officers became suspicious of the black pickup truck and conducted a detailed inspection.
Checks revealed a quantity of alcoholic beverages believed to have been smuggled from Thailand and concealed beneath the rear passenger seating area.
“Officers found five cartons containing 120 cans of beer, along with several boxes of liquor of various brands and flavours.
“The two local men inside the vehicle were subsequently arrested for further investigation,” he said.
According to Ahmad Radzi, both suspects admitted during questioning that they had obtained the alcohol in Thailand before bringing it into Malaysia through an illegal crossing point near Kampung Kedap.
The pair also claimed it was their first time transporting alcoholic beverages across the border.
“They told investigators that the alcohol was not intended for sale but was meant for use at a wedding ceremony scheduled to take place next week in Wakaf Bharu, Tumpat,” he said.
Authorities believe the significant price difference between Thailand and Malaysia may have been a factor behind the smuggling attempt.
The suspects reportedly told investigators that a carton of alcohol costs around 700 baht in Thailand, while similar products can fetch approximately RM200 per carton on the Malaysian black market.
The case is being investigated under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967.
Both suspects and the seized items have been handed over to the Criminal Investigation Division of the Pasir Mas District Police Headquarters for further action.
