Kedah: The Kedah Customs Department seized over RM16 million worth of electronic cigarette, or vape, devices and liquids in a raid on a storage warehouse in the Padang Besar Industrial Area in Perlis on Oct 13. Its director, Wan Marini Wan Hamzah, said that in the 3 pm raid, conducted by a team from the Bukit Kayu Hitam Enforcement Branch, they discovered 719,250 units of vape devices and liquids.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the team found 211,050 vape devices and 508,200 vape liquids of various brands upon further inspection. The entire seizure, believed to be not custom-cleared, is worth nearly RM13 million, while the estimated total import duties and taxes involved amount to over RM3 million.

Investigations also found that the suspect, a man in his 40s, failed to produce any valid import permits from the Ministry of Health (MOH). Wan Marini stated that vape liquid is a controlled import item under Part 1, Second Schedule of the Customs (Prohibition of Imports) Order 2023, and requires MOH approval before it can be brought into the country.

These vape devices and liquids were produced in China and arrived at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) before being brought to Perlis by land. The department is still investigating whether these items are for the local market or for export to other countries, and is also looking into the people involved, including the warehouse owner. The case is being investigated under Section 135(1)(g) of the Customs Act 1967.

Wan Marini added that the department will continue to enhance monitoring and control at all the country’s gateways to curb the smuggling in of prohibited and high-duty goods. The public is urged to assist in the fight against smuggling, especially items like cigarettes, liquor, firecrackers, drugs, and others, and to avoid involvement in such activities.

Smuggling not only results in losses for the country in terms of revenue leakages, but also poses a threat to national security and the people. Information can be channeled via the 1800-88-8855 toll-free hotline or at any nearby Customs office.