Marine Police Force launches nationwide operations to combat smuggling of fuel, cigarettes and contraband ahead of Aidilfitri.

ISKANDAR PUTERI: The Marine Police Force (MPF) has launched a nationwide special operation to curb smuggling and cross-border crimes in Malaysian waters ahead of the Aidilfitri festive season.

Bukit Aman Marine Police deputy commander (Operations/Intelligence) ACP Zulkifli Mahmood said the operation involves patrols across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak to combat the smuggling of controlled items and contraband, as well as immigration-related offences.

He stated that the initiative is being carried out in collaboration with various agencies, including the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, specifically for enforcement under the Control of Supplies Act 1961.

“Personnel have been reminded to execute their duties with high discipline and to maintain integrity at all times, particularly during enforcement at maritime borders,” he said.

Zulkifli made these remarks after attending a meeting and a breaking-of-fast session with the Singapore Police Coast Guard aboard an MPF patrol vessel in the West Johor Straits.

He revealed that the majority of seizures recorded to date involved essential goods under the Control of Supplies Act 1961, such as diesel and petrol, as well as illicit cigarettes and other contraband.

“Current fuel prices have incentivised smugglers to seek illicit profits, and consequently, we will continue to intensify our enforcement efforts to thwart these activities,” he added.

Zulkifli said that despite the inherent risks of patrolling national maritime borders, MPF officers and personnel remain committed and prepared to handle any situation to ensure national security.

 The Sun Malaysia