KUCHING: The state Customs Department said it had identified two premises around Kuching for selling illicit cigarettes and alcoholic drinks through a sudden visit recently.
According to its director Datuk Sharifah Halimah Tuanku Taha the visit aimed to examine and give explanations and reminders to cigarettes and alcoholic drinks sellers on their responsibilities to ensure that the items sold were legitimate.
“The dealer should ensure that relevant taxes have been fully paid and that each item has a valid tax stamp in line with the legislation administered by the Royal Malaysian Customs Department.
“Such visits will be held continuously to ensure that no illegal cigarettes and alcoholic drinks are sold in Kuching and throughout Sarawak,” she said in a statement yesterday.
Six premises were visited during the recent operation where they tracked the tax stamps using SM45 equipment, she added.
“Any party found possessing or selling illegal cigarettes and alcoholic drinks can be charged under Section 135 (1) (d) of the Customs Act 1967 which carries a fine up to RM100,000 or a minimum six-month jail term or both upon conviction,” stressed Halimah in the statement.
The state Customs Department also urged members of the public to ensure that cigarettes and alcoholic drinks purchased are valid.
The public can contact the Customs Department via toll-free 1-800-88-8855 or Sarawak Customs Headquarters (082-472133) should they come across any premises selling contraband items such as illicit cigarettes and alcoholic drinks.
