Malaysia customs seizes over RM250,000 in untaxed cigarettes and alcohol

Police and customs officers in Sarawak seized duty‑unpaid cigarettes and alcoholic beverages worth about RM92,000 during a raid on a premises in Bau on July 30, 2026. An 18‑year‑old employee was arrested and is being investigated under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967.

A separate operation by the Sabah Police Marine Unit and the Department of Internal Security in Tenom’s Kampung Amboi captured 134,600 untaxed cigarettes valued at more than RM167,520. The suspect guarding the storage fled the scene, prompting a continued manhunt. Both cases are being pursued under the same customs legislation to curb smuggling and protect the national economy.