PORT DICKSON: Eight men have been detained by the authorities for allegedly being in unlawful possession of 10,500 litres of subsidised diesel.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry Negri Sembilan branch director Muhammad Zahir Mazlan said a police team also seized a tanker lorry, three bonded lorries and 19 intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) during the raid at an open area in Kg Kebun Jimah in Bukit Pelanduk near here at around 2am on Thursday (June 22).
The total value of the seized diesel, lorries and related equipment came to almost RM160,000.
"An investigation paper has been opened under Section 21 of the Control of Supplies Act 1961.
"We will investigate the individuals or companies involved, the chain of distribution and where the subsidised diesel originated from," he said in a statement Friday (June 23).
Muhammad Zahir thanked the police and other agencies involved for their assistance in curbing such illegal activities, especially those involving subsidised items.
The department, he said, would continue to work with these agencies to put a stop to such activities which caused huge losses to the country.
"There would be no compromise with those who misappropriate controlled items.
"We wish to remind businesses involved in handling controlled and subsidised goods to always adhere to the law," he said.
Muhammad Zahir also urged the public to report any information on such illegal activities to the authorities.
They may send such information via WhatsApp to 019279 4317 or 019-848 8000; by calling 1800 886 800; or emailing e-aduan.kpdn.gov.my.
