Muhammad Zahir (inside lorry) looking at the seized diesel during the latest raid at Jalan Industri Galla.
SEREMBAN: The amount of subsidised diesel seized by enforcement authorities in Negri Sembilan has tripled to almost 867,000 litres so far this year compared to only 282,000 litres throughout 2022.
State Domestic Trade and Cost of Living director Muhammad Zahir Mazlan said the diesel worth some RM2.5mil was seized during 69 operations in the state following the launch of Ops Tiris.
Last year, 27 operations were carried out.
"We would like to warn those who continue to misappropriate subsidised diesel that we will eventually get you," he told reporters during yet another raid here.
The bulk of the cases were reported in Port Dickson, Kuala Pilah and here.
Muhammad Zahir said of the 69 operations, 23 were conducted by other enforcement agencies.
In total, 71 suspects were detained.
He said 21 cases have been settled and some RM300,000 in compounds collected.
Two more cases were taken to court and the offenders were made to fork out more than RM50,000 in fines.
"We mean business and there will be no compromise.
"Action can also be taken against those who buy diesel from unlicensed parties," he said.
Based on the department's investigations, the offenders will buy the subsidised diesel for RM2.15 sen per litre and then sell it to a third party between RM3.90 and RM4.30.
He said in the latest operation carried out at an unnumbered yard in Jalan Industri Galla near here, some 6,000l of subsidised diesel was seized.
"We detained five suspects aged between 17 and 40 years old and confiscated three lorries as well as RM88,000 cash.
"We are in the midst of taking their statements and hope to resolve the case soon," he said.
Muhammad Zahir said the modus operandi used by the offenders in most cases was to buy subsidised diesel sold at stations.
"They will buy it from the first buyer, then store it illegally at yards or other premises and then sell it for a profit to a third party.
"They can operate from anywhere including industrial areas or even in secluded locations," he said.
Asked if station operators were also involved in such illegal operations, he said this cannot be ruled out.
Muhammad Zahir urged anyone with information on such illicit activities to contact the ministry by sending a WhatsApp message to 019-279 4317 / 019-848 8000; or calling 1-800-886-800 or 03 8882 6245 / 6088.
