KLANG: Four containers containing over 40 million sticks of contraband cigarettes have been seized by the Customs Department.

       Central Zone Customs principal assistant director Datuk Zazuli Johan said the four containers were detected at North Port, Port Klang here on Tuesday.

       "The import manifest for the containers were declared as telekung (head scarves) and used pallets.

       "The cigarettes are worth at least RM3.2mil with RM25.4mil in unpaid taxes," he said in a statement on Thursday.

       He said the case was investigated under Section 135(1)(a) of the Customs Act for attempting to fraudulently avoid Customs duties as well as Section 74(1)(e) of the Excise Act for attempting to fraudulently avoid excise duties.

       "We urge the public to help us in our fight against smuggling activities especially involving cigarettes, alcohol, fireworks, drugs and vehicles.

       "Those with information should come forward immediately. Your identities will be kept strictly confidential," he said.

       Those with information should contact the Customs toll free hotline at 1800 88 8855 or head to the nearest Customs Department office.