RM2.33 Million Worth of Smuggled Crude Palm Oil Seized in Lahad Datu

LAHAD DATU, June 15 – The Marine Police Force (PPM) successfully foiled an attempt to smuggle and divert 76 tonnes of crude palm oil (CPO) worth over RM2.33 million in a raid at an unnumbered premises in Batu 15, Jalan Lahad Datu-Kinabatangan, yesterday.

Commander of Sabah Region 4 Marine Police, Assistant Commissioner Nazri Ibrahim, said the operation was conducted at around 11:40 AM following surveillance and the detection of suspicious activities in the area.

During the raid, the team discovered a tanker lorry and a van, believed to have been used to store and transport the CPO without proper authorization.

“Four local men, aged between 29 and 53, who were at the premises at the time, were also detained to assist with the investigation.

“We also seized two trailer lorries, a van, several oil storage tanks, and various equipment, including pumps, believed to be used in the illegal operation,” Nazri said in a press statement today.

He added that the estimated total value of the seized items—including the crude palm oil and related equipment—amounted to RM2.33 million.

All seized items were taken to the PPM Lahad Datu Operations Base for further action.

The case is being investigated under Regulation 5(1)(d) of the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (Licensing) Regulations 2005 for storing crude palm oil without a valid license.

“PPM Region 4 Sabah will continue to intensify enforcement operations to combat smuggling activities that threaten national economic stability and security,” he said.

— Agency