KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 29,152 packs of fertilisers, suspected to be sold without the required license, were seized in raids at the Tangkak Industrial Area, yesterday.
The seizure, valued at approximately RM 772,987.50, occurred during simultaneous inspections by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Muar through 'Ops Barang Kawalan' at two locations in the Tangkak Industrial Area.
Johor KPDN director Lilis Saslinda Pornomo, said both locations were suspected of conducting wholesale fertilisers businesses without any licence for scheduled controlled goods.
"At the first location, the authorities confiscated 3,942 packs of various types of fertilisers worth an estimated RM300,060 in a warehouse.
"Meanwhile, at the second location, a factory was also found to be engaging in the unlicensed wholesale trade of fertilisers and the enforcement officers seized 25,210 packs of fertiliser, valued at RM 472,927.50," she said in a statement.
Lilis said two local men in their 60s, identified as the warehouse and factory owners, were detained to assist the investigation.
"The case is being investigated under the Control of Supplies Act (CSA) 1961 and Regulation 3(1) of the Control of Supplies Regulations (CSR) 1974 for conducting the business of controlled goods without a licence.
"If convicted, the individuals face penalties for the first offence that could include a fine of up to RM1 million, imprisonment for up to 3 years, or both.
"For subsequent offences, the penalties could escalate to fines not exceeding RM3 million, imprisonment up to 5 years, or both.
Corporations found guilty could be fined up to RM2 million for the first offence and up to RM5 million for subsequent offences," she added.
Lilis said that Johor KPDN has reiterated its commitment to acting swiftly and decisively in enforcing laws to combat the misappropriation of controlled goods.
She encouraged the public to report any complaints and also provided various channels for lodging complaints and information to facilitate the public.
Consumers in the state of Johor can channel information or complaints to the Ministry through various means. These include WhatsApp at 019–8488000 or 019–2794317, the KPDN e-complaint portal at e-aduan@kpdn.gov.my, the call centre at 1–800–886-800, and the KPDN Ez ADU smartphone application.