Crackdown on Illegal E-Waste Processing Operations
Nationwide Operation Seizes RM3.8 Billion Worth of Materials
Police, in collaboration with the environmental department, have launched a crackdown on illegal e-waste processing operations nationwide, seizing RM3.8 billion worth of materials between January 1, 2024, and February 17, 2025.
Operation Details
The crackdown, which involved the General Operations Force, the wildlife crime bureau, the marine police, and the federal reserve unit, led to 538 arrests across 90 cases. Among those detained were individuals aged between two and 60 years. The operation was carried out in three phases: the first from January 1, 2024, to February 14, 2025, the second under Op Hazard on February 15, and the third from February 16 to 17.
Seizures and Arrests
In Op Hazard alone, authorities seized RM2.68 billion worth of e-waste, weighing 22.9 million kg, and arrested 246 people. Police also seized a number of items, including processing machines, oil, plastic, cooking blocks, and vehicles, valued at a total of RM179.8 million. A total of 47 locations were raided under Op Hazard.
Investigation and Charges
All those detained are being investigated under the Licensing of Trades, Businesses and Industries By-Laws, the Environmental Quality Act 1974, and the Immigration Act 1959/63. Police will continue their investigation to identify the masterminds behind the e-waste operations, particularly foreign nationals who act as owners and operators of illegal factories.
Illegal Recycling Plants
The illegal recycling plants were registered under the names of Malaysians but were actually managed by Chinese nationals. They would dismantle and separate hazardous materials from valuable metals without obtaining licenses from the environment department. E-waste contains precious metals such as gold, silver, copper, platinum, and palladium, which have high recycling value. These are processed into ingots of iron, tin, and copper before being exported abroad.
Conclusion
The crackdown on illegal e-waste processing operations is a significant step towards addressing the environmental and health concerns caused by these illegal activities. The authorities’ efforts to identify and charge those responsible will ensure that those involved in these illegal activities are held accountable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much was seized in e-waste during the operation?
A: RM3.8 billion worth of materials were seized.
Q: How many arrests were made during the operation?
A: 538 arrests were made across 90 cases.
Q: Who is being investigated in connection with the e-waste operations?
A: All those detained are being investigated under the Licensing of Trades, Businesses and Industries By-Laws, the Environmental Quality Act 1974, and the Immigration Act 1959/63.
Q: Who manages the illegal recycling plants?
A: Chinese nationals are managing the illegal recycling plants, despite being registered under the names of Malaysians.