Two illegal cigarette and vape syndicates busted in Malaysia

Malaysian law enforcement has successfully disrupted two major syndicates responsible for smuggling untaxed cigarettes and distributing illegal vape products. The operations, dubbed 'Op Taring Alpha 3' and 'Op Taring Alpha 1,' resulted in the seizure of illicit goods valued at over RM12.7 million.

In Batu Caves, Gombak, an operation on July 28th uncovered a suspected hub for storing and distributing vape products. Authorities confiscated 131,036 boxes of vape products, 4,900 bottles of vape liquid, and 25,510 e-cigarette devices, with an estimated value of RM9.4 million. These products are believed to violate regulations under the Trade Descriptions Act and the Control of Tobacco Products and Smoking Act.

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Investigation found that the products involved are believed to violate the Trade Descriptions (Certification and Labelling of Electronic Cigarette Devices) Order 2022, the Trade Descriptions Act 2011, and the Control of Public Health Smoking Products Act 2024.

Separately, on July 27th, an operation in Puchong targeted a location used for storing, selling, and distributing untaxed cigarettes. Three local men were arrested, and 1.66 million untaxed cigarettes, valued at approximately RM3.306 million, were seized. Authorities are investigating these cases under the Customs Act 1967. These busts are part of a broader intensified effort against smuggling and cross-border crime, which has seen 236 cases and RM280.4 million in seizures nationwide this year.

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Cases are being investigated under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967.