Bukit aman: The Marine Police Force requires enhanced assets to ensure a high level of operational readiness, particularly in combating smuggling activities in the country’s waters. Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department (JKDNKA) director Datuk Seri Azmi Abu Kassim emphasized the need for high-technology boats that would enable the force to perform its duties more effectively in coastal and riverine areas.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Seri Azmi highlighted that criminals are constantly changing their modus operandi, making it essential for the Marine Police Force to maintain a high level of readiness. This readiness ensures that no illegal activity escapes detection and that appropriate action can be taken. He noted the significant contribution of the Marine Police Force to the Royal Malaysia Police’s (PDRM) effectiveness, as evidenced by the value of seizures, which exceeded RM400 million in the first nine months of the year.

Datuk Seri Azmi expressed hope that the government would prioritize the requests made by the Marine Police to further strengthen their authority and capability. Such enhancements would help prevent leakages in national revenue. He made these remarks at a press conference after officiating the 78th Marine Police Anniversary Celebration at the Region One Marine Police Operations Headquarters.

In a related development, Azmi mentioned that the overall value of seizures made by JKDNKA to date had exceeded RM6 billion, with the largest involving electronic waste worth RM4 billion. He pointed out that the Department of Environment had issued only 156 licenses to selected companies to manage domestic electronic waste, not imported waste. Despite this, cases of imported e-waste have occurred, and proactive measures by the police have been effective in curbing its entry.

Datuk Seri Azmi reaffirmed the commitment to enforcing, strengthening, and ensuring full compliance with the laws by all parties, regardless of their business type.