GOF foils attempt to smuggle out used clothes at border
KUCHING: The 11th Battalion of the General Operations Force (PGA) foiled an attempt to smuggle out 120 bundles of used clothing via the Malaysia- Indonesia border on Monday.
Commanding officer Supt Rosdi Inai said acting on intelligence received, police raided the illegal route near Kampung Sebobok, Stass, Bau, at 4pm.
He said three local men were arrested after they failed to provide valid documentation.
“They tried to disguise by covering the two lorries carrying the smuggled goods with canvas, as if they were transporting palm fruits, however their intention was discovered by the operations team.
“Further checks found that both lorries were carrying 120 bundles of used clothes worth RM50,000,” he told reporters yesterday, adding the total value of the seizure including the lorries was estimated at RM190,000.
Rosdi said the lorries were spotted and stopped just 200 metres from the border.
The suspects and seized goods were later handed over to the Royal Malaysian Customs Department for further action.
Rosdi noted the suspects have been remanded to facilitate the investigation under the Customs Act 1967.
He added this was the first case involving the smuggling out of used clothing this year.
Indonesia prohibits the importation of second- hand garments into the country.