BUKIT KAYU HITAM, Malaysia: The Kedah Anti-Smuggling Unit seized some 5,500 litres of contraband diesel and petrol from eight modified vehicles during an operation here on Thursday and Friday.

Commander Mohd Noor Idris said the fuel was discovered in tanks disguised as spare tyres and containers hidden inside the spare-tyre compartments of the Thai-registered vehicles.

The five cars and three lorries were believed to be on their way to Thailand.

Mohd Noor said that the fuel was worth RM8,200 and it was the seventh case of fuel smuggling foiled since June 5.

"The case will be investigated under Section 21 of the Controlled Items Act, which carries a sentence of two years' jail or a RM15,000 fine, or both."