Tumpat: A timber factory owner was arrested yesterday for allegedly processing 749 logs while various illegal machines worth an estimated RM2.28 million were seized at a timber factory in Kampung Sebidang, Tumpat.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Southeast Brigade General Operations Force (GOF) Commander Datuk Nik Ros Azhan Nik Ab Hamid stated that the arrest and seizure were conducted by their personnel at 9 am under Op Taring Wawasan Kelantan. The factory was reportedly operating without a valid licence from the Kelantan Forestry Department.

“A total of 749 cut logs, nine round logs of various sizes, and several machines for processing timber were found in the factory,” he said in a statement today, noting that the 52-year-old local suspect is believed to have been selling all the timber to the local market. The case is being investigated under Section 3(2) of the Wood-Based Industry Enactment 1985, with the suspect and the seized goods handed over to the Pengkalan Kubor Police Station and the state Forestry Department.

Meanwhile, the GOF also thwarted an alcohol smuggling operation in Kampung Mentua, Pengkalan Kubor, yesterday, when they stopped a lorry at 11 pm. Nik Ros Azhan mentioned that the driver fled and abandoned the vehicle upon realising police presence. They discovered over 15 barrels of liquor and several packages of alcoholic beverages of various brands in the lorry.

“The total amount of liquor seized is valued at an estimated RM52,950. The case is being investigated under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967. The seized items have been taken to the Pengkalan Kubor Komtak GOF and the Customs Department,” he added.