KLANG: Over nine million sticks of illicit cigarettes were seized by the Customs Department at North Port here.

       The contraband items were found in a 12m-long container, which was supposed to be carrying garments.Central Zone Customs principal assistant director Datuk Zazuli Johan said the cigarettes were detected on July 29.

       “The contents of the container were falsely declared as garments to avoid detection,” he said in a statement yesterday.

       The cigarettes were worth RM900,000 with unpaid duties amounting to RM6.03mil, he added.

       “The case is being investigated as importing cigarettes without an import permit under Section 135(1)(a) of the Customs Act and Rule 30(1) of Free Zones Regulations.

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

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

       Anyone with information should contact the toll-free hotline at 1-800-88-8855 or go to the nearest Customs office.