Bukit kayu hitam: The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) thwarted an attempt to smuggle nearly 100 tonnes of rice worth almost RM640,000 at the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex (ICQS) in Bukit Kayu Hitam here yesterday.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, AKPS Bukit Kayu Hitam commander SAC Mohd Nasarudin M. Nasir stated that two container lorries were inspected at about 4 pm at Block E3 of the ICQS inbound lane following intelligence received. Further inspections revealed both vehicles carrying undeclared rice concealed inside their containers, believed to be an attempt to bypass checks at the country's entry point.

Inspections uncovered 49,950 kilogrammes (kg) of rice in each trailer, bringing the total seizure to 99,900 kg. The rice was estimated to be worth RM639,400, while the two container lorries, valued at about RM420,000, were also seized for further action.

The case is being investigated under Sections 20 and 21 of the Control of Padi and Rice Act 1994 (Act 522). It has been handed over to the State Padi and Rice Regulatory Authority for further action, with investigations into the agents or companies involved still ongoing.