Its alleged improprieties were discovered in August following an undercover operation by the Fed- eral Territory Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry officers, who posed as potential customers.

The operation followed a tip-off from The Malay Mail’s Hotline, which had received complaints from consumers who claimed they had been cheated by the company (see accompanying story).

Last Wednesday, six enforcement officers from the Federal Territory Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry, led by enforcement officer Norita Abdul Aziz, raided the company at 4.30pm and seized two machines worth RM100,000.

There were 20 employees at the premises during the raid. While the company had ob- tained an operating licence from the Registrar of Companies, Fed- eral Territory Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs enforcement chief Othman Nawang confirmed it did not have a direct-selling licence to operate the business.

“The company is running its business using a direct-selling concept via telemarketing,” said Othman, adding that its staff would contact potential customers and invite them to visit its premises for further information on the water dispensing business.

“We are waiting for the com- pany to furnish us with related documents, including Sirim and Health Ministry certification for their products,” Othman said.

The machines are priced at RM23,000 for the deluxe model and RM33,000 for the premier model, while the mobile prepaid reload machine is priced at RM43,000.

The case is being investigated under Section (4) of the Direct Selling Act 1993.

If convicted, the offender is liable to a maximum fine of RM50,000 for in- dividuals and RM125,000 for a corporate body, or a fine of RM100,000 or a jail term not exceeding three years, or both, for individuals, and a fine of RM250,00 for a corporate body.