A SWEEPING anti-corruption operation has led to the seizure and freezing of assets exceeding RM9 million, including gold, luxury cars, and bank accounts, following the arrest of enforcement officers allegedly linked to a border syndicate involved in illegal immigration activities at Malaysia’s main entry points.
“A total of 617 units of gold items have been confiscated, including gold bars, rings, bracelets, necklaces, anklets, earrings, and pendants,” said Tan Sri Azam Baki, Chief Commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), speaking to Harian Metro.
He confirmed the total weight of the seized gold was approximately 3.35 kilograms, with an estimated value nearing RM2.26 million.
“In addition, MACC has seized 15 luxury vehicles, including Toyota Alphard, Mercedes Benz, BMW, and Audi models, collectively worth nearly RM1.82 million.”
Azam also revealed that 126 bank accounts — comprising 82 individual accounts and 20 corporate accounts — have been frozen, involving nearly RM4.4 million. An additional RM800,000 in cash has also been confiscated.
The crackdown, dubbed *Ops Rentas*, began on 9 September and targeted a “counter setting” syndicate operating at Terminals 1 and 2 of Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). A follow-up operation, Ops Setting, commenced on 23 September at sea entry points across Melaka and Johor.
“These operations involved MACC’s Intelligence Division, along with personnel from MACC Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Kuala Lumpur, Sarawak, Melaka, and Johor,” he said.
To date, 30 enforcement officers have been detained — 20 from the Malaysian Border Control Agency (AKPS) and 10 from the Immigration Department (JIM).
“All individuals were detained for the first time, and there have been no repeat arrests. All have been released on bail, except for one who will be released today,” Azam added.
Earlier news report reveal some enforcement officers were lured by syndicate offers that could reach up to RM50,000 per month, prompting them to compromise national security by allowing foreign nationals to enter Malaysia unlawfully.
According to Azam, the officers received bribes ranging from RM1,800 to RM2,500 per individual, with total monthly takings estimated between RM10,000 and RM50,000, depending on the number of illegal entries facilitated. Payments were made either in cash or through mule accounts.
So far, 30 individuals have been arrested in connection with the syndicate — including 18 enforcement officers, five company owners, and three civilians.
Following these arrests, MACC also seized cars, motorcycles, jewellery, gold pieces, mobile devices, handbags, and watches, with the full value of the confiscated items still being assessed. - September 27, 2025
