SHAH ALAM, Oct 19 — Two men were arrested following a targeted raid on a storage facility in Rawang that uncovered a suspected syndicate involved in diverting subsidised diesel.
Selangor Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) director Muhamad Hanif Asa'ari said the operation was carried out following intelligence on suspected illegal activities involving subsidised diesel in the area.
The suspects, aged 29 and 30, were believed to be the facility's caretaker and a tanker lorry driver, respectively.
Muhamad Hanif said investigations revealed that the syndicate used fleet cards under the Subsidised Diesel Control System 2.0 to purchase diesel at nearby petrol stations before transferring it to buyers.
"Authorities seized 11,900 litres of subsidised diesel, a tanker lorry, a bonded lorry, 12 intermediate bulk containers, three sets of rubber hoses and a pump, with a total estimated value of RM82,482.
"Drivers purchased subsidised diesel at several nearby petrol stations using fleet cards before transferring it directly into buyers' lorries.
"The diesel was also stored at the illegal facility in Rawang before being pumped into tanker lorries for delivery and sale to industrial operators or other buyers," he said, as quoted by the New Straits Times.
He added that an investigation paper had been opened under the Control of Supplies Act 1961 (Act 122) to identify the individuals or companies involved, trace the suspected diesel distribution network and prevent further misuse of fleet cards by companies or other parties.
"Those found guilty could face action under Act 122, including fines of up to RM3 million and imprisonment for individuals," he said.
"Companies and statutory bodies could face fines of up to RM5 million for repeat offences and could also be investigated under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001," he added.
