Limbang: The swift action of the Ninth Battalion Border Regiment (9RS) troop of the Malaysian Army successfully thwarted an attempt to smuggle 680 cartons of cigarettes and 16 cartons of liquor in the national border area here early this morning.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, a statement issued by the Intelligence Cell of the Ninth Malaysian Infantry Brigade (9 Bgd) Headquarters detailed that the incident occurred at about 2 am. During a routine patrol near a jetty, the troops stopped a suspicious Perodua Myvi.

Further investigation revealed that the driver, a Malaysian, was not carrying any identification documents and was believed to be attempting to conduct smuggling activities via the river. The seizure included various brands of cigarettes and liquor, valued at RM139,228.30, along with the vehicle used by the suspect.

All the seized items have been handed over to the Royal Malaysian Customs Department for further action. The Malaysian Army, through the 9th Bgd, emphasized its ongoing commitment to strengthening border security to curb cross-border crime and maintain the country's sovereignty.

Brigadier General Jafri Sulaiman, the 9th Bgd commander, congratulated the 9th RS troop for this success.