KPDN, police seize vessel carrying unauthorised subsidised diesel worth RM773,600

Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) logo.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Apr 6: A joint enforcement operation by the Sarawak Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has led to the seizure of a vessel suspected of being involved in the misappropriation of subsidised diesel with total confiscated items valued at RM773,600.

The operation, conducted under Ops Tiris 4.0 following intelligence gathering and close monitoring, resulted in the detention of a vessel carrying approximately 132,000 litres of diesel worth RM283,800 which was found stored across nine separate tanks on board without valid authorisation from the Supply Controller.

Initial inspections revealed that the vessel failed to produce legitimate documentation related to the ownership and transportation of the controlled fuel. Authorities have since opened a case under Ops 555 and Ops Jeriji, invoking Section 21 of the Control of Supplies Act 1961 for possession of controlled goods under suspicious circumstances.

If convicted under the Act, individuals may face fines of up to RM1 million or imprisonment of up to three years, or both, with higher penalties for repeat offences. Companies, meanwhile, may be fined up to RM2 million, increasing to RM5 million for subsequent violations.

KPDN stressed its commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation with enforcement agencies such as PDRM to curb the misappropriation of controlled goods, particularly subsidised diesel, which has significant implications for the national economy and public welfare.

The ministry also urged the public to refrain from panic buying, assuring that supply levels remain sufficient and stable. At the same time, Malaysians are encouraged to participate in the ‘Kita Gempur’ initiative to combat leakages and manipulation involving controlled goods.

Members of the public are further encouraged to report any suspicious business activities involving traders or distributors through official KPDN channels, including its hotline, email, call centre, and mobile application. — DayakDaily