2,529kg of durian among seized fruits destroyed at ICQS Merapok

Authorities inspecting seized durian prior to disposal at ICQS Merapok in Lawas. Photo: ICQS Merapok

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Jan 21: A total of 2,529 kilogrammes of durian, along with 20kg of dabai fruit and one moringa plant, were destroyed at the Merapok ICQS Complex in Lawas yesterday (Jan 20) following enforcement action at the border checkpoint.

According to a TVS news report, ICQS Merapok said the disposal of seized fruits and plants was carried out by officers from the Sabah and Sarawak Agriculture Departments and witnessed by representatives from the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (Sabah), the Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM) at ICQS Merapok, the General Operations Force (PGA), and the People’s Volunteer Corps (RELA).

“Eight Detention of Plant (DOP) cases were disposed of, involving 2,529kg of durian, 20kg of dabai and one moringa plant,” it said.

It added that the disposal process was certified by a senior agriculture officer and a senior customs officer as the principal witnessing officers.

ICQS Merapok further stated that the seized items were disposed of through burial and burning in line with standard operating procedures.

“All commodities are only disposed of after the seven-day forfeiture period has lapsed, and all seized items involved had exceeded 12 days from the date of seizure,” it said.

ICQS Merapok stressed that enforcement action will continue, with all agencies stationed at the complex implementing existing laws to strengthen border control and prevent the illegal movement of agricultural commodities. — DayakDaily