POLICE in Johor have uncovered an illegal e-waste processing operation, seizing goods worth RM71.5 million, believed to involve imported items.
The operation was part of a special raid, "Op Taring Landai," conducted by the Johor Marine Police's Risk Unit in collaboration with the Johor Department of Environment (JAS) and the Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB).
The police targeted three factories located in Mukim Plentong, Desa Cemerlang, and Ulu Tiram early in the morning on Feb 13. The raid, which began at 6am., resulted in the detention of two foreign nationals employed at the facilities, BuletinTV3 reported.
Among the items seized were 1,369 jumbo sacks filled with various metals, including iron, tin, copper, as well as automotive, electronic, and plastic components, with an estimated weight of 2,379 tonnes.
Authorities also confiscated 47 industrial machines, 28 pallets containing metals like iron, tin, and copper, along with automotive and electronic components (weighing around 22.4 tonnes), and 19 tanks containing automotive parts and iron powder (approximately 41 tonnes).
Additionally, police seized 13 piles of iron and automotive components, weighing around 55 tons, 10 gas cylinders, three mobile phones, two iron crucibles, a furnace for iron melting, and one aluminum basket containing automotive components (weighing approximately 2 tonnes).
The total value of all confiscated materials, including the processing equipment, amounted to RM71.5 million, which has been handed over to JAS Johor for further investigation.
Datuk M Kumar, the Johor Police Chief, stated that the case is being investigated under the Immigration Act 1959/63, Sections 18(1), 19, and 13(A)(6) of the Environmental Quality Act 1974.
Additionally, the case is being probed under the Johor Bahru City Council's 2016 Business and Industrial Licensing By-Laws, specifically for operating without the necessary licenses.
Kumar said processing waste materials without a license is not only illegal but also poses serious risks to the environment and public health. He urged the public to report any illegal activities to the authorities, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.
The illegal processing of e-waste is a growing concern, as it can lead to harmful environmental impacts due to the improper disposal of hazardous materials, as well as potential health hazards to workers and local residents. - 16 February 2025
