Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency intercepts lorry with 16,500 vape devices at Kuala Sanglang jetty, foiling attempt to smuggle goods to a neighbouring country
KANGAR: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has foiled an attempt to smuggle e-cigarette devices worth over RM500,000 out of the country.
The agency seized nearly 16,500 vape devices during an operation at the Fisheries Development Board jetty in Kuala Sanglang early yesterday morning.
Kedah and Perlis Maritime director First Admiral Romli Mustafa said the seizure followed the interception of a lorry at 1.15 am based on intelligence.
“Checks revealed the vehicle, driven by a man with two local male workers aged 19 to 47, was carrying 56 brown boxes holding nearly 16,500 vape devices of various kinds,” he said.
Romli stated the devices were believed to have been intended for smuggling to a neighbouring country via a waiting fiberglass boat.
The lorry and the three men were taken to the Kuala Perlis Maritime Zone office for further investigation.
The case is being probed under Sections 135(1)(a) and (d) of the Customs Act 1967.
Romli emphasised that authorities will take a tough stance on smuggling activities.
He added that patrols and enforcement in national waters will be stepped up ahead of the festive season.
