Malaysia’s General Operations Force (GOF) has seized illegal vape devices worth more than RM8.8 million (about US$2.07 million) during a special operation, arresting two people involved in the case, which has been handed over to the relevant authorities for investigation.
Core Watch:
- 57,780 vapes valued at over RM8.8 million (about US$2.07 million) were seized during the Malaysian operation, allegedly not complying with certification standards.
- Two persons were arrested and the items involved included transportation trucks, which were suspected to be used for local distribution.
- The case is being investigated under the relevant Act and has been referred to the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living.
Malaysia seizes over $2.07 million in illegal vapes
The Straits Times reported on July 10 that Malaysia’s General Operations Force (GOF) seized more than RM8.8 million (US$2.07 million) worth of vapes during a special operation called “Op Taring Wawasan Kelantan”. The seizure was carried out by the 7th Battalion.
The seizure was carried out by officers from the 7th Battalion who, after checking vehicles on the roadside, found several boxes wrapped in yellow plastic inside a suspicious truck. Enforcement officers found it contained 57,780 vape devices in various flavors. These items were suspected to be non-compliant with the standards of the Trade Descriptions (Certification and Labeling of Electronic Devices) Order in Malaysia.
The two were arrested for illegal sales
In Malaysia, such products must have a certificate and the MS SIRIM mark to be sold in the local market.
A 22-year-old truck driver and his 40-year-old assistant were also arrested in the operation. It is believed that they had been transporting the prohibited items for local distribution.
The case has been handed over to the Department of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) for further action.
In addition, police are investigating the case under Article 4(2) of the Trade Descriptions (Certification and Marking of Electronic Equipment) Order 2022 under the Trade Descriptions Act 2011.
