Kotabaru, South Kalimantan (ANTARA) - The Kotabaru Naval Base have foiled a smuggling of 31,600 without excise stamps (illegal) of various brands in the Selat Laut Kotabaru waters, South Kalimantan Province.
Commander of Kotabaru Naval Base Marine Lieutenant Colonel (P) Muhammad Harun Al Rasyid said the detainment of KLM Prabu Wijaya 88 ship began with the Second Fleet Quick Response (SFQR) team worked based on intelligence information with support from the community.
"The joint team detected and pursued the ship, precisely at coordinate 0314’45.55? S, 11612’02.26? E," said the Commander in a written press statement in Kotabaru, Tuesday.
He said the team secured the ship along with four crews and the captain. The ship sailed from Kerayaan Island to Hilir Kotabaru.
"They are now being examined by officers,” said Harun.
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The evidence confiscated included 1,010 packs of NERO cigarettes, EL-EM cigarettes 110 packs, 369 SAM LIOK KIOE cigarettes 300 packs, and HND PRATAMA cigarettes 160 packs.
"With this action the team have managed to secure potential loss of excise revenue of Rp23,573,600 million," Harun expounded.
He added that this action was clearly violated the Shipping Law and Customs Law.
"We have coordinated with Custom and will continue the investigation with relevant authorities,” said Harun.
He emphasized that this joint operation was based on synergy, collaboration and joint commitment to eradicate circulation of illegal goods that can harm the state and society.
"The Navy in Kotabaru strongly supports the government programs in increasing the state revenue by preventing smuggling," concluded Harun.
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