Op Taring Chiller Busts Illegal Frozen Meat Network, 32 Arrested and RM1.6 Million Seized
KUALA LUMPUR, April 2 — A total of 32 individuals were arrested in a coordinated enforcement operation known as Op Taring Chiller, targeting illegal frozen food processing and storage activities in the Subang area.
Those detained include both locals and foreign nationals aged between 22 and 59, comprising business owners, company managers, and workers from Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
According to Senior Assistant Commissioner Mohd Zaki Ashar, commander of the Wildlife Crime Bureau/Intelligence Investigation under the Department of Internal Security and Public Order, authorities seized large quantities of frozen meat products that lacked halal certification.
“The operation led to the seizure of 34 tonnes of pork carcasses and 97 boxes of frozen chicken, none of which carried valid halal certification,” he said in a statement.
Large-Scale Seizure Highlights Scope of Operation
Mohd Zaki said the total value of the seized goods is estimated at RM1.6 million, indicating the scale of the illegal activities carried out by the syndicate.
In addition to the meat products, enforcement officers also confiscated equipment used in the operation, including three weighing machines and three one-tonne lorries, with a combined value of approximately RM350,000.
The raids were conducted at three premises in an industrial area believed to be involved in unauthorised processing and storage of frozen food products.
Syndicate Network Disrupted
Authorities believe the operation successfully dismantled a network involved in the smuggling, processing, and distribution of frozen food across the Klang Valley.
Mohd Zaki noted that such activities pose serious concerns not only in terms of legal compliance but also food safety and adherence to halal standards.
“This operation is part of ongoing efforts to eliminate activities that could compromise consumer safety and the integrity of the food supply chain,” he said.
All suspects have been taken to the Sungai Buloh district police headquarters for further investigation.
Multi-Agency Collaboration Strengthens Enforcement
The operation involved collaboration with several government agencies, including the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN), Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (MAQIS), and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department.
Mohd Zaki said the multi-agency approach enables authorities to address various aspects of illegal operations more effectively.
“This integrated effort allows us to identify and act on multiple violations in a single operation,” he said.
Firm Warning Against Illegal Food Activities
Authorities have issued a strong warning that strict action will continue to be taken against those involved in illegal food processing and distribution.
Mohd Zaki stressed that food safety and regulatory compliance, including halal certification, must not be compromised.
“Consumers must be protected, and we will not tolerate any violations of the law,” he said.
The operation underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that Malaysia’s food supply chain meets safety standards and regulatory requirements.
-wilayah.com.my
