Melaka: The Melaka branch of the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) successfully intercepted an attempt to smuggle 5,069 kilograms of shark fins valued at RM8.36 million, including duties and taxes, through a strategic operation at Port Klang, Selangor on July 2.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the director of the Melaka JKDM, Roslan Yusoff, revealed that the operation led to the seizure of 180 sacks of shark fins believed to have been imported from Guyana, South America, intended for the local market. The inspection, conducted by the Melaka JKDM Enforcement Division and the Narcotics Branch from the headquarters, uncovered that the container's contents had been falsely declared as fish skin, which incurs a five percent tax.
A physical examination of the cargo revealed it contained 180 sacks of shark fins, which are subject to a ten percent tax. Roslan explained at a press conference in Ayer Keroh that the shark fins necessitate inspection and approval from the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (MAQIS) and the Malaysian Fisheries Department, in line with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
The estimated value of the seized shark fins is RM7.6 million, with total duties and taxes amounting to RM760,275.18, bringing the total value of the seizure to RM8.36 million. Following the seizure, the container was confiscated, and a man in his 50s, representing the shipping agent responsible for managing the trade declaration documents, was detained to assist in the investigation. The importing company, based in Selangor, has been identified, but the company's director is still being located to aid in the investigation.
Preliminary findings indicate the goods were incorrectly declared to bypass MAQIS inspection and evade accurate tax payments. The case is currently under investigation under Section 135(1)(a) of the Customs Act 1967, which pertains to the importation of uncustomed or prohibited goods. Roslan emphasized that the JKDM remains committed to enhancing enforcement efforts to combat smuggling activities, aiming to prevent revenue losses and ensure the safety and well-being of the populace.