Tumpat: The General Operations Force (GOF) successfully intercepted an attempt to smuggle 42,700 coconuts into Thailand, with a total value of RM1.2 million. The coconuts were discovered at a storage facility linked to an illegal jetty on Jalan Kasban.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Southeast Brigade GOF commander, Datuk Nik Ros Azhan Nik Ab Hamid, reported that the operation was conducted by the 7th Battalion GOF as part of Op Taring Wawasan at 10.30 pm. The operation led to the detention of three men suspected of smuggling activities at the site. Inside a trailer, the officers found the coconuts allegedly intended for transport to Thailand.

The detained individuals, aged between 22 and 38, are believed to be couriers involved in the smuggling network. The total value of the seizure, including the vehicle used, is estimated at RM1.2 million. The case is under investigation in accordance with the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) Act 1965. The suspects and confiscated items were taken to the Pengkalan Kubor GOF tactical headquarters for further processing.

In a separate incident, the 7th Battalion GOF seized ornamental plants valued at RM12,600 during a roadblock operation at Lalang Pepuyu, Tanah Merah, conducted at noon the previous day. The seizure occurred after officers stopped a van that appeared suspicious during the ongoing Op Taring Wawasan.

An inspection of the van revealed 260 ornamental plant saplings, which were suspected of being carriers of pests and diseases. The van’s driver, a 34-year-old man, is suspected of transporting the plants for distribution in the local market. This case is being investigated under Section 5 of the Plant Quarantine Act 1976 (Act 167), with the suspect and confiscated plants handed over to the Kelantan Plant Biosecurity Division for further action.