KOTA KINABALU: An attempt to smuggle in 10,728 cans and bottles of alcoholic drinks was foiled by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) 2.9 nautical miles north-east of Balangkasan Island, Menumbok, early Thursday (April 25) morning.
The team also seized a fibreglass boat with a triple-motor configuration used to transport the contraband.
Labuan MMEA director Capt Izwanhadi Idros said the boat was spotted during routine patrols under Ops Sejahtera, Ops Khas Pagar Laut and Ops Tiris, at around 5.10am, moving from Labuan island towards Menumbok.
He said as they were nearing the boat, it accelerated towards the mangrove forest along Sungai Klias.
"The suspects escaped into the mangrove forest, leaving the contraband of various brands on board.
"We believe that the contraband was meant to be sold in the local market in Sabah," Capt Izwanhadi said.
He added that the boat and seized items, valued at RM472,000, were taken to the Labuan Maritime Zone jetty for investigation and further action.
The case is being investigated under the Customs Act 1967 for smuggling alcoholic beverages exceeding the permitted amount.
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