Crackdown on Illegal E-Waste Operations Results in 16 Arrests and RM3.8 Billion in Seizures
Operation Uncovered Unlawful Processing and Disposal of E-Waste
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has arrested 16 individuals, including company owners, on suspicion of bribing enforcement officers over the processing and disposal of illegal electrical and electronic waste, or e-waste. The operation was conducted in collaboration with the immigration and environment departments, with raids on 12 factories in Selangor and Johor.
Arrests Made, Suspects Detained
According to MACC deputy chief commissioner (operations) Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya, the 16 individuals arrested were aged between 30 to 40 and were taken into custody between 9:30 am and noon. Some of the suspects are believed to be company owners who bribed enforcement officers to protect their businesses.
Factories Found to be Involved in Unlawful Activities
The factories, which were found to be involved in the unlawful processing and disposal of e-waste, including fibreglass, plastic, iron, and metal, were discovered through a three-month intelligence operation. The operation aimed to crack down on illegal e-waste operations, which have been a significant environmental concern in Malaysia.
Seizures Reach RM3.8 Billion
It was reported last Thursday that the crackdown by police and environment departments nationwide on illegal e-waste operations had led to RM3.8 billion in seizures between January 1, 2024, and February 17 this year. This significant amount is a testament to the extent of the problem and the importance of the current efforts to address it.
Conclusion
The arrest of 16 individuals and the seizure of RM3.8 billion worth of illegal e-waste is a significant step towards addressing the environmental concerns surrounding the disposal of electrical and electronic waste in Malaysia. The operation, which was carried out in collaboration with various government agencies, demonstrates the commitment to tackling this issue and ensuring that those responsible for illegal activities are held accountable.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the purpose of the operation?
The operation aimed to crack down on illegal e-waste operations and address environmental concerns surrounding the disposal of electrical and electronic waste in Malaysia. - Who was arrested in the operation?
16 individuals, including company owners, were arrested on suspicion of bribing enforcement officers over the processing and disposal of illegal e-waste. - What is the total value of the seizures?
The total value of the seizures is RM3.8 billion, which was reported between January 1, 2024, and February 17 this year.