The seized contraband which was discovered hidden in the back of the van.

MIRI, Jan 24: The Marine Intelligence Unit (URM) Region 5 intercepted a Toyota van carrying illicit cigarettes and beers valued at RM132,031.20 on Tuesday morning (Jan 23) in a successful operation named ‘Ops Kontraban’.

Miri OCPD ACP Alexson Naga Chabu revealed that the operation, conducted around 9:30 am, led to the vehicle being stopped on the roadside of Jalan Dato Permaisuri 1C, Lorong 2, in front of an ice factory in Tudan.

Upon further inspection, the contraband was discovered hidden in the back compartment of the van.

The van driver was subsequently detained by the police for further investigation when he failed to provide evidence that the tax on the items had been paid – an offense under the Customs Act 1967.

The seized items, along with the vehicle valued at RM40,000, are now in police custody.

The authorities are intensifying efforts to curb the illicit trade of cigarettes and alcohol in the region. — DayakDaily