GOF Southeast Brigade commander Nik Ros Azhan Nik Ab Hamid said the operation was carried out in collaboration with the Kota Bharu land and mines office at around 4.15pm.

He said the inspection found that the activities were carried out by three local men and three Bangladeshis who failed to show valid permits or documents for sand extraction.

“The police seized all of the equipment and machinery such as sand suction vessels, excavators, lorries, and other equipment used to move sand, estimated to be worth RM2 million.

“The case is being investigated under Section 426 of the National Land Code 1965. The suspects and the seized items were handed over to the Kota Bharu land and mines office for further action,” he said in a statement today.

Nik Ros Nik Azhan said GOF had also foiled coconut smuggling activities after detaining a trailer and two lorries in Kampung Terbak, Tumpat, on Sunday.

“The results of the inspection found that three local men were transferring approximately 45,100kg of coconuts from the trailer to the lorry, and they failed to show the related purchase documents.

“The estimated value of the seizure, including vehicles, is RM1.35 million. The case is being investigated under Regulation 4(2) of the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (Fama) Act.

“The suspects and the seized items were handed over to the Kota Bharu Fama office for further action,” he said.