Pahang: The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) has successfully dismantled an electronic waste smuggling ring with the confiscation of eight containers estimated to be worth RM2.15 million during a raid at Northport on February 3.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Pahang JKDM director Mohd Asri Seman stated that the operation was executed based on intelligence collected by the JKDM Bentong Enforcement Division in partnership with the Selangor Department of Environment (DOE). The seized 40-foot containers originated from Canada, Spain, and Croatia and were intercepted at the CP-Hold Yard. These containers collectively contained approximately 186,737 kilograms of e-waste, believed to have been imported without the necessary permits and falsely declared in customs documentation.
The importation of e-waste is classified as a conditionally prohibited item, requiring prior approval from the Director-General of Environment under the Customs (Prohibition on Imports) Order 2023. Initial inspections uncovered inconsistencies between the declared items and the actual contents, suggesting an attempt to smuggle e-waste through a major entry point in the country. The syndicate allegedly used false declarations to bypass the Import Permit requirement, mislabeling the goods as copper alloy to avoid detection.
Mohd Asri emphasized the seriousness with which JKDM approaches attempts to import e-waste, citing significant repercussions on the environment, public health, and national security. The case is under investigation under Section 135(1)(a) of the Customs Act 1967, with offenders facing severe penalties upon conviction.
In related news, Mohd Asri announced that JKDM would continue to enhance intelligence gathering and enforcement across all national entry points to combat smuggling activities. He highlighted the importance of inter-agency cooperation to ensure strict control of conditionally prohibited goods like e-waste in compliance with the law.
The public is encouraged to assist JKDM in the fight against smuggling activities involving items such as cigarettes, liquor, firecrackers, drugs, vehicles, and other contraband. Informants are assured that their identities will remain confidential and can report any suspicious activities to the Customs Toll-Free Line or the nearest customs office.