State customs director Norizan Yahya said authorities arrested a 44-year-old man during the raid, conducted on Feb 12 at around 9.30am.

“An inspection of the premises uncovered 16,656,000 sticks of kretek cigarettes of various brands, stored at the location.

“The estimated value of the seized cigarettes is RM1,499,040, while the total duty and tax involved is approximately RM11,142,864,” he told a press conference here today.

He also said that a lorry with an estimated value of RM80,000, believed to have been used for transporting the contraband, was seized.

The premises, located in a remote area, were believed to have been used as a storage facility for smuggled goods before their distribution to the local market.

Norizan said the case is being investigated under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967, which carries a fine of between RM100,000 and RM500,000, imprisonment of six months to five years, or both, upon conviction.

He urged the public to assist the department in combating smuggling activities, particularly involving cigarettes, liquor, firecrackers, drugs, vehicles, and other contraband. He also cautioned them against participating in such illegal activities.

“Smuggling not only results in revenue losses for the country, but also poses a threat to national security and public well-being,” he said.

Smuggling activities can be reported by contacting the customs department’s toll-free line at 1-800-88-8855 or the nearest customs office. Informants’ identities will be kept strictly confidential.