Authorities uncovered a major stash of smuggled fireworks and firecrackers hidden inside a semi-detached house ahead of the Lunar New Year.
During raids in Segamat, the Police General Operations Force (PGA) seized a total of 194 boxes of various fireworks and firecrackers, with an estimated market value of RM309,893. One 23-year-old local man, of Chinese descent, was arrested for investigation.
PGA Battalion 5 commander, Assistant Commissioner Sharil Ishak Suleiman, said the operation—dubbed “Operation Taring Charlie”—took place on the evening of Tuesday, Jan. 20, at two residences in Queen’s Garden and Lining Town.
The operation also saw the seizure of a Daihatsu Delta lorry and a Ford Raptor pickup truck used by the syndicate to transport the fireworks.
Investigations revealed that the illegal syndicate had been purchasing fireworks from licensed suppliers but stored them in multiple residential homes as temporary warehouses before redistributing them illegally. The suspect did not hold any legal permits for purchasing, storing, or distributing fireworks.
Sharil noted that the operation successfully prevented the illegal accumulation and distribution of fireworks during the festive season, contributing positively to public safety.
The public is urged to continue providing information to assist the police in combating crime, including smuggling and illegal entries. Tips can be submitted via 07-7557280.
