The marine police foiled an attempted smuggling of contraband during a routine patrol early yesterday morning along the Brunei River. The contraband was believed to have originated from a neighbouring country.
According to the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF), marine police officers spotted a suspicious boat speeding from the border into Brunei waters.
A chase ensued, but the suspect managed to flee after abandoning the boat in the mangrove area near Kampong Sungai Bunga.
Upon searching the abandoned boat, police personnel discovered 1,899 cartons of cigarettes and a bottle of alcohol.
The seized items, along with the boat, have been handed over to the Royal Customs and Excise Department for further investigation.
The RBPF in a statement urged the public to report any suspicious or illegal activities by contacting the nearest police station or call the hotline at 993. – James Kon