Op Metal: MACC Seizes Over RM183 Million In Assets, Freezes Bank Accounts Worth Over RM51 Million

GEORGE TOWN, July 15 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has seized various assets estimated to be worth over RM183 million following raids on scrap metal smuggling syndicates in five states since yesterday.

According to sources, the operation, carried out by the MACC’s Special Operations Division in collaboration with the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM), Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), and Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) under the Multi-Agency Task Force (MATF) via Op Metal, also froze 45 company accounts and 82 personal bank accounts involving a total value of about RM51 million.

The seized assets include eight properties in Penang, namely three bungalows in Batu Maung, a penthouse in Tanjung Tokong, a shop lot in Bayan Lepas, 31 acres of land in Nibong Tebal, 7.1 acres in Batu Uban, and 5.6 acres in Juru, as well as more than 1,960 acres of oil palm plantation land in Kuala Krai, Kelantan.

“MACC also seized six luxury vehicles comprising a Porsche Cayenne, Range Rover, BMW, Volvo, Toyota Land Cruiser, and Toyota Alphard—altogether valued at over RM1.9 million.

“During the raid, MACC also confiscated five branded watches, namely a Patek Philippe, Tag Heuer, Rolex, Omega Speedmaster, and Omega Seamaster, valued at more than RM740,000,” the source said in a statement today.

It is understood that most of the seized assets, luxury vehicles, and branded watches belonged to a foreign man who owns a scrap metal company and resides in an upscale neighbourhood in Batu Maung, which was raided during Op Metal yesterday.

During the raid, the individual, who holds a “Datuk” title, was not at home and is believed to be abroad on business. He is expected to return tomorrow.

Meanwhile, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki, when contacted, confirmed the freezing of the bank accounts as well as the seizure of the properties, luxury vehicles, and branded watches.

Following Monday’s operation, he said the MACC also conducted further raids today at 13 new locations in Penang, Kedah, Johor, and the Klang Valley.

“MACC is now identifying individuals who colluded with the syndicates that smuggled out scrap metal and e-waste through Port Klang and Penang Port, causing an estimated RM950 million in lost tax revenue over the past six years.

“The focus of the investigation is on offences under Sections 16 and 18 of the MACC Act 2009. It also involves analysis and identification of other criminal elements under money laundering offences, as well as investigations under the Income Tax Act 1967 and the Customs Act 1967 by other participating agencies,” he said.

Earlier, Bernama reported that the MACC raided scrap metal smuggling syndicates in five states believed to have bribed enforcement officers, resulting in the government losing hundreds of millions in export tax revenue.

-- BERNAMA