Malaysia seizes RM38.7 million in untaxed liquor, rescues protected turtles

Malaysian authorities have reported significant seizures of untaxed liquor and protected wildlife, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat smuggling and illegal trade.

In the first seven months of this year, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) recorded 21 cases involving untaxed alcoholic beverages, with a total seizure value of RM38.7 million nationwide. These operations have resulted in 43 arrests during the period.

A recent operation in Selangor successfully dismantled a syndicate involved in smuggling and distributing untaxed liquor. Police seized contraband valued at RM1.9 million, arresting five individuals, including two foreign nationals aged between 25 and 35. The seized items included 389 crates and 255 boxes of various liquor brands, along with two lorries and five mobile phones.

Intelligence suggests this syndicate had been actively storing, distributing, and selling illegal liquor since 2024, using areas like Pandamaran, Bukit Tinggi, and Port Klang as key distribution points. The cases are being investigated under the Customs Act 1967 and the Immigration Act 1959/63.

In a separate operation, the Wildlife Crimes Bureau (WCB) in collaboration with the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) rescued 89 protected turtles worth RM190,000 in Lunas and Kulim, Kedah. A local man in his 30s was arrested during this raid, which involved the confiscation of 74 Sulcata tortoises and 15 Yellow Pond Turtles. This operation, part of the Integrated Wildlife Conservation Operation (Brian Exotic), has led to 53 cases and 56 arrests with a total seizure value of RM93.8 million from January to July.