InfoSAWIT, KOTA KINABALU — A significant operation conducted by the General Operations Force (PGA) of the Sabah Brigade has successfully dismantled a smuggling network for crude palm oil (CPO) operating along the eastern and western coasts of Sabah. Dubbed Operation Contraband (Op Taring Palma), this extensive initiative has been underway since January 2025.
In an official statement on Tuesday, Senior Assistant Commissioner Datuk Abdul Rani Alias, the Commander of the Sabah PGA Brigade, revealed that eight raids have been executed involving various PGA battalions, including BN14 Tawau, BN15 Sandakan, BN16 Kota Kinabalu, BN17 Lahad Datu, BN20 Beluran, BN21 Keningau, and BN22 Kunak.
Authorities apprehended 26 individuals, comprising 21 local men, four Filipinos, and one Indonesian, who are suspected of illegally storing and transferring CPO without the necessary permits and failing to provide required documentation.
“The total value of the seized items is estimated at RM11.87 million, including CPO valued at RM1.89 million, vehicles such as trucks and trailers worth RM9.32 million, and various equipment valued at RM650,890,” Abdul Rani stated, as reported by InfoSAWIT from The Borneo Post on Thursday (July 17, 2025).
He added that this operation has effectively halted the activities of an organized syndicate involved in the illegal distribution and smuggling of CPO along the Sabah coast. The suspects are believed to have operated a complex distribution network that bypassed official channels, depriving the state of revenue and taxes.
“The PGA will continue to carry out such operations to ensure public safety and community welfare,” he emphasized.
Abdul Rani also called for active community participation in reporting any suspicious activities in their surroundings to the authorities. “Community cooperation is crucial in helping us tackle illegal activities that harm the economy and threaten public order,” he stated.
This series of raids is part of a broader effort by Malaysian law enforcement to tighten oversight of high-value commodities and combat cross-border smuggling networks often involving complex logistics and inter-regional collaboration.
Currently, all suspects are under investigation and are expected to face charges related to illegal trade and licensing violations under applicable laws. (T2)
