Sarawak: The General Operations Force (GOF), Sarawak brigade, has successfully seized goods valued at RM1.16 million during operations known as Op Taring Awas and Op Batas conducted in various southern locations of the state recently. The operations have led to multiple arrests and seizures, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat smuggling activities in the region.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, SAC Dr. Che Ghazali Che Awang, commander of the Sarawak brigade, reported that a significant operation took place on July 2 in Bau. This operation resulted in the arrest of a 25-year-old man and the confiscation of 9,000 kilograms of frozen food and a lorry, with a total worth of RM522,000.

Additionally, on the same day in Bau, the GOF arrested a 52-year-old man and seized 6,500 kilograms of frozen food products and another lorry, collectively valued at RM367,000. These arrests are part of a series of enforcement actions aimed at curbing illegal trading activities in the region.

Further, the GOF apprehended a 35-year-old man in Serian on June 30, recovering 600 liters of diesel, three drums, and a Toyota Hilux, altogether valued at RM136,728. Another patrol in Tebedu last Saturday uncovered a cache of smuggled goods, including 145 cartons of cigarettes with unpaid taxes, estimated at RM78,300.

On the same day in Tebedu, a 39-year-old man was arrested, and authorities seized 576 kilograms of sugar and a van, with a total value of RM62,141.60. These operations underscore the continuous efforts by the GOF to address smuggling and ensure compliance with state regulations.