Jitra: The General Operations Force (GOF) Northern Brigade arrested two men and seized 40 tonnes of white rice, believed to have been smuggled from a neighbouring country, in Jitra, on Sunday (March 16).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the arrests took place at 4 pm when an intelligence team from the brigade headquarters intercepted the suspects during a paddy and rice regulatory enforcement operation. The two local men were apprehended while transporting the rice, suspected to have been smuggled via Rantau Panjang, Kelantan, using a lorry destined for distribution in the northern region.

The seized rice is valued at RM160,000, and the lorry, worth RM350,000, was also confiscated. The case is currently under investigation under Section 7(2) of the Control of Paddy and Rice Act 1994 (Act 522). GOF Northern Brigade commander SAC Shahrum Hashim emphasized the ongoing efforts of the brigade in conducting surveillance and patrols across Perak, Penang, and Kedah to combat illegal activities.

Shahrum reiterated the commitment of the GOF Northern Brigade to maintain law enforcement, particularly regarding the protection of essential goods. He encouraged public cooperation by reporting any suspicious activities to the authorities, underscoring the importance of community involvement in safeguarding the region.