Kedah AKSEM seizes RM1.5 mln worth of cigarettes, liquor with no customs approval

BUKIT KAYU HITAM: The Kedah Border Control Agency (AKSEM) seized various types of cigarettes and liquor that are without Customs approval, valued at nearly RM1.5 million, in Kampung Bukit, Permatang Pauh, Penang early yesterday.

Kedah AKSEM Commander, Abd Latiff Abdul Rahman said the seizure was made at 5 pm from five vehicles, comprising three lorries, a van and a car, which were left at an open space in the village following a public tip- off and surveillance.

Following inspection, about 500 cartons of liquor and more than 3,000 cartons of cigarettes were found in the vehicles, he told reporters here yesterday.

He believed that the vehicles were left there, with the ignition key inside, before a third party would come to transport the contraband to local market.

The cigarettes included the brands John, d& j, and Mina, while the liquor included Heineken, Guinness, Anchor, Knox, Diablo, Special Brew and Hunting Lodge.

Abdul Latiff said the cigarette and liquor consignments are believed to have been smuggled into the country to be sold in conjunction with the coming Deepavali celebration and Christmas in December.

All the items had been handed over to the Customs for investigation under Section 135 (1)( e) of the Customs Act 1967.