Claws for concern: GOF probes cross-border ring links to 41-tonne frozen chicken parts seizure in Perlis
SAC Shahrum (second from left) and his team removing the seized items from the warehouse. – BERNAMApic
PADANG BESAR: The General Operations Force (GOF) has seized 41.8 tonnes of frozen chicken feet and chicken livers valued at RM481,200, believed to lack a veterinary health certificate, in a raid on a warehouse in the Padang Besar industrial area.
The authorities are also looking into the possible involvement of a larger cross-border network, according to GOF Northern Brigade commander Senior Asst Comm Shahrum Hashim.
He said the raid, conducted at around 7pm Monday (April 28), was carried out by the brigade's First Battalion Intelligence Unit after two weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance.
The operation resulted in the arrest of two Thai nationals, aged 21 and 34.
"The initial inspection revealed 1,400 kg of potatoes with valid documentation, believed to have been used to deceive the authorities.
"A more thorough inspection uncovered an additional 31,600 kg of chicken feet and 10,200 kg of chicken livers," he told a press conference here on Tuesday (April 29).
He added that the goods were found to be improperly packaged, in unhygienic conditions, and still dripping with water, posing potential health risks.
"The investigation found that the suspects used an online ordering and self-pickup system, with the operation taking place in a closed, inconspicuous warehouse area, despite its proximity to the main road.
The two Thai men were also found to be without valid work permits, and were subsequently handed over to the Padang Besar district police headquarters, while the frozen goods were handed over to the Veterinary Services Department for further investigation.
He said the total value of the seized items, including two vehicles, five containers, potatoes, frozen goods, and a forklift from the warehouse, amounted to RM1.893mil.
The case is being investigated under Section 13 of the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Act 2011 and Immigration Act 1959/63 while the owner of the premises is being identified, he added. – Bernama
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