Perai: The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) has busted a syndicate smuggling firecrackers and fireworks without permit worth nearly RM1 million, including taxes, following a raid on a warehouse in the Nagasari Industrial Area, Perai, on March 11 and 12.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Penang JKDM director Rohaizad Ali stated that the raid was conducted by a team from the Enforcement Division’s Operations Unit. During the operation, seven containers were discovered inside the warehouse, containing 1,332 cartons or 28,780 kilogrammes (kg) of various brands of firecrackers and fireworks without a permit.

Rohaizad Ali explained that the seized items were believed to be stockpiled for the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations, with the warehouse serving as a storage facility. He noted that the firecrackers and fireworks did not comply with the specifications and guidelines set in the import permit issued by the Home Ministry and the Royal Malaysia Police.

The value of the firecrackers and fireworks is estimated at RM360,767.50, with duties amounting to RM599,189.63. These items have been confiscated for further action, Rohaizad Ali said during a press conference at the Bagan Jermal Enforcement Storage Facility.

A local man in his 60s was detained at the location during the raid. However, investigations are ongoing to ascertain his role and connection to the syndicate. Rohaizad emphasized that firecrackers and fireworks are restricted items, and their import is only allowed with a valid import license under Item 46, Part I, Third Schedule of the Prohibition Order (Prohibition on Imports) 2023.

The case is being investigated under the Customs Act 1967, and further investigations are currently underway.