1,870 Packets of Subsidised Cooking Oil Seized in Sandakan

1 March 2026

SANDAKAN: Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (Maritim Malaysia) Sandakan Zone has successfully foiled an attempt to smuggle subsidised cooking oil, arresting two vessels during an operation in waters off Kampung Bokara Lama early yesterday morning.

The Director of Sandakan Maritime Zone, Captain Muhamad Suhairy Hussain, said that the incident occurred at approximately 2am, when a patrol boat was conducting routine surveillance in the area.

He stated that enforcement officers detected two suspicious boats before approaching them for inspection. However, upon spotting the authorities, the individuals onboard fled the scene into nearby areas, leaving the vessels behind.

Further inspection of the boats uncovered a total of 1,870 packets of cooking oil, believed to have been intended for illegal export.

The case is now under investigation under the Control of Supplies Act 1961, as the suspects are suspected of smuggling controlled goods without the appropriate permits.

Both vessels, together with the confiscated items, including engines and the cooking oil, were subsequently taken to the Sandakan Maritime Zone jetty for handover to investigating officers for further action.

The total value of the seized items is estimated to exceed RM50,000.

Captain Muhamad Suhairy also confirmed that Maritime Malaysia will continue to intensify patrols and enforcement activities to combat smuggling operations, advising the public to refrain from involvement in any illegal activities.

Members of the public are encouraged to report any maritime crimes via the emergency line 999 or contact the Sandakan Maritime Zone Operations Centre at 089-229504 for immediate assistance.