Johor Customs foils RM8.51 million untaxed cigarette smuggling attempt

Johor Customs has successfully thwarted an attempt to smuggle untaxed cigarettes worth RM8.51 million, including duties and taxes. The seizure involved 9.32 million white cigarettes of various brands, with an estimated value of RM2.143 million and duties and taxes amounting to RM6.365 million.

The operation took place on May 18 when officers inspected a 40-foot container at a warehouse in the Tanjung Pelepas Free Port Zone, Gelang Patah. The container was declared to be carrying 'Base Paper Reels' and was en route to a final destination in Europe.

According to Johor Customs Director Aminul Izmeer Mohd. Sohaimi, this seizure marks the largest of its kind for untaxed cigarettes by Johor Customs this year. Investigations are ongoing to identify the syndicate involved and the owner of the warehouse premises to assist further inquiries. The case is being investigated under Section 133(1)(a) of the Customs Act 1967, which carries a penalty of a fine not exceeding RM500,000 or imprisonment for up to seven years, or both, for a first offense.

“

Pemeriksaan dibuat menemukan 9.32 juta batang rokok putih pelbagai jenama tidak bercukai bernilai RM2.143 juta, melibatkan duti dan cukai sebanyak RM6.365 juta. Anggaran keseluruhan bernilai RM8.51 juta.