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New Straits Times

[UPDATED] MACC busts smuggling ring run by senior military officers

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has dismantled a drug and contraband smuggling syndicate involving senior armed forces officers in the southern region. The operation, codenamed Op Sohor, was launched early this morning and resulted in the arrest of five senior military officers and five civilians. According to sources, the suspects, including an Indonesian national, are aged between 30 and 55, and were arrested around the Klang Valley during the operation, which began at 6.30am today. The operation was carried out by the MACC Intelligence Division with assistance from the Anti-Corruption Tactical Squad (ACTS). Sources added that the syndicate is believed to have been capable of moving goods worth RM5 million each month. "The senior officers were from the Armed Forces intelligence division, including two former personnel from the same unit. "They were tasked with monitoring and curbing smuggling activities but are believed to have colluded with the syndicate for the past five years, allegedly amassing more than RM3 million in bribes," a source said today. Initial investigations showed that the five senior officers, who are the main suspects, allegedly leaked military operational information to smugglers and worked with the syndicate to bring prohibited goods, such as drugs, cigarettes and other contraband, from neighbouring countries into Malaysia. The total value of goods smuggled is estimated at about RM5 million per month. "The suspects are believed to have received bribes of between RM30,000 and RM50,000 for each smuggling trip," the source added. This morning's raid was conducted by the Intelligence Division based on intelligence gathered over the past 12 months. Authorities also seized more than RM63,000 in cash, several packets of drugs, weighing and measuring equipment, liquor and imitation firearms from the raided premises. According to sources, the smuggling network involving these senior military officers was extensive and difficult to uncover. During the operation, an Indonesian woman without valid travel documents was also arrested. She is believed to be the mistress of one of the suspected senior military officers. MACC deputy chief commissioner (operations) Datuk Seri Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya, when contacted, confirmed the arrests. He said the case was being investigated under Section 16(a)(B) of the MACC Act 2009. He stressed that such operations must be taken seriously by all parties, as these smuggling activities could jeopardise national security. "Even though we have various agencies to monitor and take action, smuggling activities still persist," he said. He added that all suspects will be brought to the Putrajaya magistrate's court tomorrow for a remand application under Section 117 of the Criminal Procedure Code.