In a recent operation conducted by the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) at Senari Port in Kuching, a significant quantity of wine has been seized. The operation, which took place last month, resulted in the confiscation of 12,850 bottles of wine valued at RM490,650.
According to JKDM Sarawak director Norizan Yahya, the unpaid duties for the seized wine are estimated to be RM324,148.88. The discovery was made during a routine check of a shipping container at the Customs Examination Area (CEA) within Senari Port. The inspection, conducted at around 10:40 am on April 17, uncovered the illicit shipment of wine.
Further investigations into the supporting documents and electronic declaration forms revealed discrepancies, indicating that the wine was not properly declared upon entry into the country. It was found that the wine had been smuggled into Malaysia by concealing its boxes among other declared goods. Additionally, the declaration of the goods lacked specific details in an attempt to avoid detection by authorities.
Norizan Yahya emphasized that the case is now under investigation under Section 133(1)(a) of the Custom Act 1967 and Section 138 of the same Act. The authorities are actively pursuing the matter to ensure that those responsible for the smuggling attempt are held accountable.
This seizure highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat illegal activities and uphold customs regulations at ports of entry across the country.
