Customs Dept seizes over seven tonnes of illicit firecrackers
BINTULU: The Customs Department has seized about 7.715 tonnes of contraband firecrackers and fireworks worth RM51,930 with a total of RM33,754.50 unpaid duties during an operation here on May 7.
Sarawak Customs director Herman Shah Abdullah said the 430 cartons of firecrackers and fireworks, believed to be from China, were seized from a container at the department’s enforcement office at Kampung Jepak.
“From the inspection on the container, it was found that several types of firecrackers and fireworks of various brands were not properly declared and not listed in the import license issued by the police,” he said in a statement.
The importer and the shipping agent have been detained to assist in the investigation.
According to Herman, the case items that have been declared in the import form (K1) were found to be not the same as inspected in the container.
“The firecrackers and fireworks were mixed together with other goods with intent to mislead and avoid detection by the authorities,” he said, adding that this was the second case that involved shipment through Bintulu Port.
He said the firecrackers and fireworks are believed to be for sale for the local market as they have a high demand during the festive season.
Herman said the case was being investigated under Section 133(1)(a) of the Customs Act 1967 for false declaration, which carries a fine of not more than RM500,000 or imprisonment of up to seven years or both.
He said the case will also be investigated under Section 135(1)(a) of the Customs Act 1967 for importing prohibited goods and if convicted, could be fined not less than 10 times the value of the goods or RM50,000 whichever is higher, and not more than 20 times the value of the goods or RM500,000 whichever is higher, or imprisonment not exceeding five years or both.
Herman also urged the public to help the department combat smuggling activities especially involving cigarettes, liquor, firecrackers, drugs, vehicles and others, by contacting 1-80088-8855 or visiting the nearest Customs office.
He assured that the identity of informants would be kept secret and warned the people not to engage in any of these illegal activities.