KUCHING: The General Operations Force (GOF) conducted a significant operation last Friday, resulting in the seizure of contraband cigarettes and liquor valued at over RM3 million in Sarawak. The operation, dubbed ‘Op Taring Alpha,’ uncovered a large cache of illicit goods, marking a substantial victory in the ongoing battle against smuggling in the region.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sarawak Brigade GOF Commander SAC Che Ghazali Che Awang reported that the raid on a premises led to the discovery of 1,777 cartons of white cigarettes, 695 cartons of kretek cigarettes, 11,732.5 liters of beer, and 2,137.9 liters of liquor from various brands. The seized items were collectively valued at RM3,023,488.75. During the operation, authorities also arrested two local women, aged 30 and 33, who are now under investigation.

The commander stated that the suspects and the seized contraband have been handed over to the Kota Samarahan District Police Headquarters. The case is being investigated under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967, which deals with the illegal importation of goods.

In a separate statement, Che Ghazali detailed the broader efforts of the Sarawak Brigade GOF in 2024, highlighting a total of 287 raids conducted throughout the year. These operations resulted in 630 arrests and deportations, with seizures amounting to RM83.3 million. The arrests included 154 locals and 121 foreigners, emphasizing the widespread nature of the smuggling issue.

Che Ghazali noted that 355 foreigners, all from Indonesia, were deported after being caught attempting to enter Sarawak through illegal border routes. The seized items from these operations included cigarettes worth RM25.6 million, liquor valued at RM6.9 million, diesel totaling RM1.2 million, vehicles worth RM14.2 million, and various other items summing up to RM35.4 million.