Security border to be stepped up - Armed Forces chief

Anticipating an increase in smuggling of firecrackers and daily essential items along the border, especially with the approaching of Aidilfitri, security there will be stepped up.

Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) chief General Tan Sri Zulkifeli Mohd Zin said the armed forces would step up operation, as well as patrol along the border.

"We know there may be attempts to smuggle prohibited items, like firecrackers, for the festive season," he told Bernama.

He said during Ramadan, smugglers took advantage of the time for the breaking of fast and tarawih prayer to carry out their activities.

"So, patrol during the breaking of fast and tarawih prayer will be stepped up," he added.

In KOTA BAHARU, Acting Pengkalan Kubor Marine Operations Force (MOF) commanding officer Inspector Virak Kongpet said patrol along the Kelantan border was being stepped up to curb smuggling, especially of firecrackers, with the approaching festive season.

"Operation will also be conducted periodically, especially at night and early morning, along Sungai Golok," he said.

Virak said the operation would focus on boats plying across the river.

In KANGAR, Perlis Malaysian Border Security Agency (Aksem) commander DSP Syed Basri Syed Ali said smuggling of subsidised items, like cooking oil, flour and sugar, from Malaysia across the border was normally done in small quantity by individuals on motorcycles, especially in Wang Kelian.

"They carry the items in small quantity, but if it is done five to six trips a day, the amount is big," he said, adding that during the fasting month, the smuggled items would include firecrackers and fireworks, as well as glutinous rice.

"In IPOH, Perak Customs deputy director Kamaruddin Ahmad said checks at Bukit Berapit and Pengkalan Hulu had been intensified to curb smuggling activities with the approaching of Aidilfitri.

"Checks will be conducted on all vehicles, including lorries carrying fruits, to ensure they are not used to smuggle prohibited items like firecrackers, fireworks and glutinous rice," he added.

He said the department was working closely with Perak Aksem in an effort to eliminate smuggling activities.