The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) Labuan has been cracking down on smuggling activities, particularly in the realm of luxury vehicles. In a recent series of operations, the Labuan customs director, Aspalila Awang Tuah, announced that a total of 34 vehicles, including high-end models such as BMW, Toyota Vellfire, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi Q7, have been seized for unpaid duties amounting to a staggering RM3,085,030.78. This marks a significant increase from the previous year, with 34 cases recorded in less than six months compared to 16 cases in the entire previous year.
According to Aspalila, the modus operandi of these smuggling activities often involves bringing vehicles outside the duty-free island of Labuan, known as Kawasan Utama Kastam (KUK), under the facilities of Item 14, Customs Duty (Exemption) Order 2017. However, these vehicles fail to return within the stipulated 90 days, leading to the confiscation of the vehicles by the customs department. The cases are currently under investigation under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967.
If the owners do not settle the unpaid duties or compound the cases, legal action will be taken against them, and the seized vehicles could potentially go through a tender process for auction. Aspalila emphasized the commitment of the Labuan Customs in tackling smuggling issues that have been causing significant revenue leakage from the duty-free island. She also called on the public to assist the customs department in combating smuggling crimes involving not only vehicles but also cigarettes, liquor, firecrackers, drugs, and other contraband.
The broader impact of smuggling goes beyond just revenue loss, as it also poses threats to national security and public safety. Aspalila highlighted the dangers associated with smuggling activities, stressing that it is detrimental not only to the nation’s finances but also to the welfare of the populace. By cracking down on smuggling activities, the Labuan Customs Department is not only safeguarding the country’s revenue but also protecting its citizens from potential harm.
In conclusion, the recent seizure of 34 vehicles with unpaid duties by the Labuan Customs Department sheds light on the ongoing battle against smuggling activities in Malaysia. With a focus on luxury vehicles and other contraband, the customs department is working diligently to ensure that the nation’s revenue is protected and its citizens are kept safe. By raising awareness about the dangers of smuggling and calling for public assistance, the customs department is taking proactive steps to combat this illicit trade and uphold the rule of law.