THE General Operations Force (PGA) has successfully raided two illegal e-waste recycling factories in Penang and Perak, resulting in the arrest of 22 individuals, including 21 foreign nationals.
The operation, dubbed Op Hazard, led to the seizure of e-waste materials, machinery, and other assets valued at approximately RM117.5 million.
Senior Assistant Commissioner Shahrum Hashim along with Commander of the Northern Brigade PGA Ulu Kinta, revealed that the first raid took place in Simpang Ampat, Penang, on Wednesday, March 5.
The factory was found operating without a license or approval from the Department of Environment (JAS) and was involved in the illegal recycling of e-waste.
"The operation, conducted from 10am to midnight, involved the Risk Branch of Battalion 3 and Battalion 1 PGA, along with the Penang Department of Environment.
Three individuals were arrested, including one local and two Myanmar nationals," Shahrum said in a statement.
The seized items from the Penang factory included e-waste valued at RM60.5 million, machinery worth RM43 million, industrial equipment valued at RM750,000, and iron ore estimated at RM2.5 million. The total estimated value of the seized goods from this raid alone was RM106.77 million.
The case is being investigated under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 and Section 18(1) of the Environmental Quality Act 1974.
The second raid occurred on the same day at a plastic recycling factory in Sungkai, Perak.
The operation, conducted by the Risk Branch of Northern Brigade PGA and the Perak Department of Environment, resulted in the arrest of 19 foreign nationals.
This facility, also operating without proper authorisation, was found processing hazardous waste illegally. The total value of the seizure from this Perak factory amounted to RM10.75 million.
"Briged Utara PGA is continuing to monitor and patrol the areas of Perak, Penang, and Kedah to curb illegal activities," Shahrum added. – March 8, 2025
