Two diesel smuggling bids busted in Kuching in one day

File photo of KPDN enforcement officer inspecting the seized diesel and equipment during Ops Statik in Kuching, where two separate misappropriation attempts were foiled on April 24, 2026.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, April 26: Swift enforcement action by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Sarawak saw two separate diesel misappropriation attempts foiled within hours of each other in Kuching under Ops Statik on April 24 — with one man arrested in each case.

In the first case at about 2pm, officers intercepted a suspicious grey Nissan Frontier and uncovered some 160 litres of suspected diesel stored in 16 jerry cans.

The team also seized the vehicle, keys, storage containers, and related documents, with total confiscated items estimated at RM20,854. One man was arrested to assist in investigations.

Just hours later at 8.03pm, enforcement personnel struck again — this time detecting a Kia Sorento believed to be used for illegal fuel storage.

Checks revealed a larger haul of about 600 litres of suspected diesel, along with a 12V electric pump and hoses used for fuel transfer. Total seizures in the second case were estimated at RM31,540, with another man detained.

Both cases are being investigated under Section 21 of the Supply Control Act 1961 for possessing controlled goods under suspicious circumstances.

Upon conviction, individuals face fines of up to RM1 million or jail of up to three years, or both, with heavier penalties for repeat offences. Companies may be fined up to RM2 million, rising to RM5 million for subsequent offences.

Sarawak KPDN director Matthew Dominic Barin called on the public to report illegal activities, stressing that community cooperation is key to curbing the misuse of controlled goods. — DayakDaily