Large-Scale Vape Enforcement Operation in Sabah
Malaysian enforcement agencies in Sabah conducted simultaneous raids in seven districts, seizing vapes and e-liquids worth over US$156,000 and arresting 23 local individuals.
Key Points at a Glance
- Location: Simultaneous operations in seven districts of Sabah, Malaysia.
- Seizures: 12,000 vapes, 1,915 bottles of e-liquid.
- Total Value: RM635,262 (approximately US$156,333).
- Arrests: 23 people (aged 20–35; 18 men, 5 women).
- Investigation: Handled under relevant sections of the Public Health Control of Tobacco Products Act 2024 and local licensing regulations.
Details of “Op Taring Alpha 3”
According to a Borneo Post report on January 19, 2026, the Malaysian General Operations Force (GOF) in Sabah carried out a simultaneous integrated operation known as “Op Taring Alpha 3,” seizing a large quantity of vape devices and e-liquids worth over RM635,000 (approximately US$156,333) and arresting 23 individuals.
Districts Covered in the Operation
The operation covered multiple locations across Sabah, including Kota Kinabalu, Tawau, Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Beluran, Keningau, and Semporna.
Multi-Agency Enforcement Effort
The operation involved coordinated teams from the Ministry of Health and local authorities, to strengthen enforcement against the illegal sale and possession of vapes and e-liquids.
Arrests and Seized Items
A total of 23 suspects were arrested, aged between 20 and 35 years old, comprising 18 men and 5 women. All suspects were local citizens with no prior criminal records. Enforcement officials confirmed that the seized items included 12,000 vape devices and 1,915 bottles of e-liquid, with an estimated total value of RM635,262.
Legal Basis and Potential Penalties
The case is being investigated under Section 10(1) of the Public Health Control of Tobacco Products Act 2024. Upon conviction, a first offense is punishable by a fine of up to RM20,000 (approximately US$4,921). Subsequent offenses may result in a fine of up to RM30,000 (approximately US$7,382.79), imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
