Langkawi: The Home Ministry (KDN) is set to mobilize all its resources to strengthen control over the country's land and maritime borders against cross-border crime threats. This initiative involves collaboration between the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), General Operations Force (GOF), Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), Malaysian Volunteer Corps Department (RELA), and the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail emphasized the government's responsibility in safeguarding the security of the nation's waters and land borders, including hotspots like Langkawi known for smuggling activities and unauthorized landings of foreign nationals. The Ministry plans to utilize radar systems to detect suspicious movements and deploy assets to secure these areas.
During a recent inspection of border operations in the northern region, including Teluk Ewa and Telaga Harbour in Langkawi, Saifuddin assessed the operational readiness to combat the leakage and smuggling of controlled goods. He highlighted the commitment to use all resources under the Home Ministry, with the involvement of the Armed Forces in strategic locations to ensure effective enforcement.
The Minister also addressed issues of leakages and smuggling, particularly involving diesel and petrol. He noted that Ops Tiris is being implemented to counteract these activities, especially given the impact of the West Asian crisis on supply and prices. Police have been tasked with assisting the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) in monitoring petrol stations near border areas. Saifuddin reported a significant drop in RON95 sales, with RON97 sales seeing an increase, which he attributes to the effectiveness of the current strategy.
In Kedah, the Home Ministry recorded 58 cases under Ops Tiris as of April 22, involving over 33,586 seized items valued at nearly RM122,000. Saifuddin highlighted instances of diesel smuggling, where users exploit subsidies to sell diesel to syndicates who then resell it at higher prices. He reported that foiled diesel smuggling in Kedah amounted to over RM101,000, with additional seizures of petrol, cooking oil, coarse sugar, and wheat flour.