Multi-agency operation seizes RM38mil cash and 200kg gold from smuggling syndicate.

A smuggling syndicate, accused of involvement in corruption, criminal breach of trust, and tax evasion, has been dismantled as a result of a major crackdown conducted by a Multi-Agency Task Force (MATF) led by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). The operation, carried out on Monday (July 24), resulted in the seizure of over RM38 million in cash and 200kg of gold worth over RM60 million. Several luxury vehicles were also confiscated.

The MACC collaborated with various agencies, including the police, Immigration Department, Customs Department, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), and Cyber Security Malaysia (CSM) to launch the operation, codenamed Ops 82S. This marked the first operation conducted under the chairmanship of the Attorney General. A total of 34 locations in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor were simultaneously raided, and 315 officers from different agencies were involved. The operation resulted in the arrest of a businessman holding a “Datuk” title and his associates.

The seized items include at least RM38 million in cash, 200kg of gold worth approximately RM60 million, and 17 luxury cars, including a Maserati, Ferrari, and Mercedes Benz.

Tan Sri Azam Baki, the MACC chief commissioner, confirmed the arrests and stated that the case is being investigated under several acts, including the MACC Act 2009, the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorist Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act (AMLATFPUAA) 2001, the Taxation Act 1967, and the Customs Act 1967.

MACC reported on Tuesday that a concert organiser with a “Datuk” title had been arrested in connection with questionable funds amounting to RM500 million.