The men were caught with over 13,000kg of LPG cylinders in an unlicensed facility.

Five Indonesian men have been sentenced to 15 months in jail in Johor after being caught with more than 13,000kg of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders without a licence. The Sessions Court ruled that the offence posed significant risks to public safety and caused losses to the country.

The Arrest and Charges

The accused — Muhammad Ali, 32; Zulfan Fauzi, 31; Nasrullah, 34; Marhaban, 31; and Adnan, 28 — were arrested on July 28 at a warehouse in Jalan Sungai Tiram, Ulu Tiram. Enforcement officers uncovered 13,746kg of LPG stored illegally, classified as a controlled item under the Control of Supplies Regulations 1974.
They were charged under Section 21 of the Control of Supplies Act 1961, read together with Section 34 of the Penal Code. The law provides for a maximum penalty of three years’ jail, a fine of up to RM1 million, or both.

Court Proceedings

During sentencing, Sessions Court Judge Thalha Bachok @ Embok Mok ordered the men to serve 15 months in prison from the date of their arrest on July 28. The court also allowed the forfeiture of seized goods, including two trailers and 1,357 LPG cylinders valued at approximately RM280,000, to the government.

Defence and Prosecution Arguments

The men, who were unrepresented, requested leniency, arguing they were only workers trying to support their families. Some had just started their jobs days before the arrest. However, prosecuting officer S. Loganathan from the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry stressed that the offence had serious implications for public safety and warranted a deterrent sentence.

Enforcement Operations

The arrests followed joint enforcement efforts under Op Gasak, Op Tiris, and Op Gempur, conducted by teams from Putrajaya and Johor. Surveillance of the premises revealed illegal LPG decanting activities before the raid was carried out.

Broader Impact

Authorities highlighted that illegal LPG storage and distribution can lead to major safety hazards and financial losses. The case serves as a warning that strict penalties will be imposed on individuals and groups involved in such operations, regardless of their employment status.

The sentencing of the five Indonesian men reflects Malaysia’s strict stance against illegal handling of controlled goods. By enforcing heavy penalties and forfeiting assets, authorities aim to deter similar offences and safeguard public safety in Johor and beyond.

Sources: Malay Mail (2025) , The Star (2025)

Keywords: LPG Cylinders Johor, Illegal LPG Storage, Indonesian Men Jailed, Control Of Supplies Act, Johor Sessions Court, Malaysia Enforcement