KUCHING: Sarawak Customs Department solved 31 cases of smuggling and selling contraband cigarettes and alcohol during the first eight months of this year.
Its director Datuk Sharifah Halimah Tuanku Taha said all 31 cases had been brought to court, which saw 13 accused pleading guilty.
Sharifah Halimah said the Customs Act 1967 and Excise Act 1976 was amended and came into force from January 1 this year with increased penalties for offenders.
The minimum fine now stands at RM100,000 or a minimum of six months’ jail term, or both. Previously, the minimum fine was a mere RM1,000 or jail term of one day or both.
Sharifah Halimah said the state Customs Department (Enforcement) have been ranked sixth in the country in efforts at eradicating smuggling of contraband cigarettes.
“I believe that the integrated effort amongst agencies have been impactful and effective,” she said during an assembly at Wisma Kastam Medan Raya here yesterday.
She pointed out among the successes this year was the special joint operation with Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) which saw 18 luxury cars confiscated for evading taxes (Customs duties) and violating Item 13 of Customs Duties (Exemption) Order 2017.
Sharifah Halimah also disclosed that ‘Operasi Bersepadu’ between Internal Tax Division, Enforcement Division and Compliance Division of the state Customs Department had collected RM7,894,509 in unpaid taxes with over RM1.5 million in penalties.
During the event, she presented certificates of appreciation to outstanding staffs and clients.
