Smuggling Persists Despite Closure Of Illegal Jetties At Kelantan-Thai Border

KOTA BHARU, Aug 25 (Bernama) -- The closure of illegal jetties along the Malaysia-Thailand border in Kelantan has been carried out, but smuggling activities remain a major challenge.

Speaking to reporters after a meeting at the Kelantan Federal Development Office here today, Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said the issue would be discussed further with the Thai authorities in an upcoming meeting to seek a joint solution.

He said the closures involved illegal jetties along the Sungai Golok in four districts bordering Thailand: Pasir Mas, Tumpat, Jeli and Tanah Merah, which had long served as the main routes for illegal crossings.

In addition, he said the police, together with other security agencies, are planning to demolish illegal jetties along the border to curb smuggling and unauthorised movements, as such facilities are often used to transport various goods illegally.

“This meeting also discussed border arrests, including the smuggling of cattle, coconuts and other goods, which are still occurring.

“Although many arrests have been made by enforcement agencies, particularly the General Operations Force, a long-term solution has yet to be achieved. In some instances, cases are settled once suspects pay a fine, allowing smuggling activities to persist without being fully curbed,” he added.

-- BERNAMA