Customs seize contraband cigarettes hidden under cocoa beans, arrest lorry driver
Johor Customs successfully foiled an attempt by a smuggling syndicate to illegally transport 320,000 untaxed cigarettes to Singapore, hidden under the guise of a legitimate export shipment earlier this year.
Utilizing advanced surveillance and Real-Time Monitoring Systems, the authorities intercepted the suspicious lorry at Sultan Abu Bakar Complex in Gelang Patah at approximately 2:40 PM on February 6, 2025. Acting upon intelligence received, Johor Customs officers conducted a thorough inspection.
Contraband Hidden Under Legitimate Cargo
The lorry’s cargo was falsely declared as cocoa beans meant for transit from Johor Port to Singapore. However, during the inspection at the Second Link checkpoint, customs officers uncovered 1,600 cartons of illegal “Double Happiness” cigarettes cleverly concealed inside gunny sacks. The seized cigarettes had a market value of RM76,800, with unpaid duties amounting to RM218,880, bringing the total illicit shipment value close to RM296,000.
Johor State Customs Director Aminul Izmeer Mohd Sohaimi, in a statement on April 15, confirmed the seizure of both the contraband and the lorry involved. He stressed the incident underscored an increasing misuse of the “in transit” export channels for illegal trade activities.
Swift Court Action
The arrested lorry driver was subsequently charged under Section 135(1)(e) of the Customs Act 1967. Appearing in Johor Baru Magistrate’s Court on February 14, the suspect pleaded guilty and was sentenced to eight months imprisonment. Additionally, he was ordered to pay RM64,000 in unpaid duties or face an extra four-month jail term. The driver settled the fine immediately, while the court ordered the confiscation of both the seized contraband and the lorry.
Director Aminul highlighted that the successful interception was the result of vigilant enforcement coupled with advanced, technology-driven intelligence operations. He emphasized the commitment of Johor Customs to combating smuggling activities which harm public safety, economic security, and national revenue.
“Smuggling activities like these do not just rob the country of revenue; they also jeopardise public safety and the wellbeing of the people,” Aminul added.
Public Urged to Assist Authorities
Johor Customs has called upon citizens to actively assist authorities by reporting any suspicious smuggling activities through the Customs Department’s confidential toll-free line at 1-800-88-8855. Aminul assured the public that informants’ identities would remain strictly confidential, reinforcing the department’s commitment to secure cross-border trade and public safety.
This recent incident highlights the ongoing challenge of illicit trade within the Malaysia-Singapore border region. Both countries must remain vigilant, continuously improving cross-border enforcement measures and information sharing to effectively deter future smuggling attempts. Strong collaboration will ensure enhanced security, revenue protection, and regional economic stability.
Sources: NST (2025), 中國報China Press (2025)
Keywords: Johor Customs, Cigarette Smuggling, Untaxed Cigarettes, Illegal Shipment, Customs Act 1967
