Kuala lumpur: The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) has seized 13 imported vehicles of various models, valued at approximately RM4.61 million, after discovering they were stored beyond the allowed period at a licensed warehouse in the Klang Valley. The operation, known as Ops Terma, involved several raids between January 5 and February 6 and was conducted in collaboration with the department's Customs Division.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the director of JKDM, Wan Norizan Wan Daud, disclosed that thorough inspections revealed the vehicles had exceeded the 48-month storage limit, violating Sections 65(2) and 65(5) of the Customs Act 1967. The seized vehicles are worth an estimated RM1.7 million, with import duties and taxes accounting for approximately RM2.8 million, totaling RM4.6 million.

Following the seizure, two company directors have been questioned, and investigations are underway to identify the company or importing agent responsible. The case is being investigated under the Customs Act 1967 for offences related to storing or possessing goods subject to customs duties or import restrictions, specifically under Section 135(1)(d).

The law stipulates severe penalties for offenders, including a fine of not less than 10 times the customs duty or RM100,000, whichever is higher, and up to 20 times the value of the goods or RM500,000, whichever is higher. Additionally, offenders may face imprisonment ranging from six months to five years, or both.