Authorities in Kelantan uncovered a large-scale diversion of subsidised cooking oil after a suspect abandoned his vehicle and fled into nearby bushes following a pursuit spanning nearly 10 kilometres in Kampung Kubang Panjang, Lemal on Wednesday.
The incident unfolded at about 8.30pm during Ops Tiris 4.0 (Integrated), conducted by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Kelantan in collaboration with the Marine Police Force Region Three, Pasir Mas District Police Headquarters and KPDN Pasir Mas branch.
According to KPDN Kelantan director Hanif Yusabra Yusuf, the operation began following intelligence gathered at a wholesale controlled goods premises in Pasir Mas before officers tailed a locally registered Perodua Alza suspected of being involved in illicit activity.
He said the vehicle was eventually intercepted in Kampung Kubang Panjang, where the driver attempted to escape on foot into a nearby bush area, successfully evading arrest.
A thorough inspection of the abandoned vehicle later revealed 1,360 kilogrammes of subsidised cooking oil believed to have been intended for illegal diversion and resale.
Authorities estimated the total value of the seizure, including the vehicle involved, at approximately RM18,400.
Hanif confirmed that investigations are being carried out under the Control of Supplies Act 1961 for possession of controlled goods with intent to commit an offence.
He added that the operation was part of ongoing enforcement efforts to curb leakage of subsidised essentials, which continues to be a concern in several states.
Officials have not ruled out the possibility of a wider syndicate involvement and said investigations are ongoing to track down the suspect and any accomplices linked to the case.
