KLANG, MALAYSIA - An attempt by a forwarding company to smuggle 100 units of battery-powered motorcycles by declaring them as bicycles was foiled by the Customs.

An enforcement team discovered the undeclared machines worth about RM175,000 (S$71,680) in a container at North Port at about 4pm last Monday following a tip off.

Selangor Customs deputy director (enforcement) Chik Omar Chik Lim said the Toye motorcycles were believed to have been smuggled from China.

"The motorcycles were brought in without an import permit as well as approval from the Road Transport Department (RTD).

"This is the first time that we have come across this type of vehicle," he said.

The motorcycles are believed to be destined for rural areas where they could be sold without RTD registration.

The 75cc motorcycles could be sold for between RM2,000 and RM2,500, said Chik Omar.

He advised the public against buying the machines because they had not been tested and were illegal.

He added that the department had identified the company responsible for importing the motorcycles and would question a few people soon.

In another case, the department seized contraband cigarettes and alcohol worth RM5,000, with unpaid duties amounting to RM12,000, from a mini market in Taman Sentosa last Friday.

Chik Omar said the department had conducted raids on 162 convenience stores, mini markets and shops in the state since Nov 14.

The Star/Asia News Network