Pinang Tunggal: A significant operation led to the seizure of 169,440 kilogrammes of unlicensed controlled fertilisers, valued at RM508,470, in a warehouse located in Permatang Saga, Pinang Tunggal. The raid, conducted by the General Operations Force (GOF) Northern Brigade Intelligence Branch team, also resulted in the arrest of the company owner.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the operation commenced at 3 pm, following a week of intelligence gathering by the GOF team. The Penang branch of the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) has since taken over the case. SAC Shahrum Hashim, commander of the GOF Northern Brigade, explained that the raid uncovered various fertilisers and equipment used in their production, suggesting unlicensed activities at the warehouse.
During the operation, several types of fertilisers and production materials were found, and the warehouse owner was detained. Shahrum confirmed that the case was transferred to the Penang KPDN due to evidence of unlicensed fertiliser processing.
State KPDN director, S. Jegan, disclosed preliminary findings indicating that the 71-year-old owner was involved in large-scale fertiliser sales without a valid licence, violating the Control of Supplies Act 1961. The seized items included 231 jumbo fertiliser units, 60 bags of compound fertiliser, and 91 bags of NPK fertiliser, cumulatively weighing 169,440kg.
Additionally, packaging and production machinery, along with empty fertiliser sacks, were confiscated. The total value of the seized goods and equipment reached RM541,222. Jegan stated that relevant documents were also seized to aid ongoing investigations under the Control of Supplies Act 1961 and Control of Supplies Regulations 1974.
The fertilisers, classified as controlled goods, were reportedly meant for distribution to local farmers. While strict actions are being taken against the company, Jegan mentioned plans to assist the owner in obtaining a proper licence for wholesale fertiliser sales. Feedback from farmers indicated that the fertilisers were valued for their effectiveness in increasing paddy yields and were competitively priced.