THE Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) have pledged full cooperation with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) following the arrest of senior military officers allegedly involved in a contraband smuggling syndicate operating in the south of the country.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said his ministry will assist MACC in conducting a comprehensive investigation.
“I stress that the Ministry of Defence will not compromise on this matter, especially as the allegations pose a threat to national security,” he said.
“There are no individuals above the law, and I urge the authorities to carry out a full investigation and ensure the culprits are brought to justice,” he told Buletin TV3.
Separately, Chief of Defence Forces General Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaafar gave his assurance that ATM would not protect any of its personnel involved in the alleged offences.
“We will provide full cooperation and, God willing, the actual number of ATM officers detained will be confirmed soon. We will not cover it up — let this be investigated thoroughly,” he said in a statement.
According to MACC, ten individuals were detained as part of its operation codenamed Op Sohor, including five senior military officers and one Indonesian national, aged between 30 and 55.
The arrests, which took place in the Klang Valley from as early as 6.30 am, were made by MACC’s Intelligence Division with support from the agency’s Tactical Team (ACTS).
The smuggling ring, allegedly led by intelligence officers from ATM, including two former members, is believed to have been active for five years.
The syndicate, tasked with monitoring cross-border smuggling, is suspected of leaking military operational data to smugglers and facilitating the entry of prohibited goods from neighbouring countries into Malaysia.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the syndicate generated up to RM5 million a month in illicit trade involving drugs, cigarettes and other contraband.
Suspects are believed to have received between RM30,000 and RM50,000 for each smuggling operation. Over the years, it is estimated that more than RM3 million in bribes was amassed.
ATM has urged the public to allow authorities space to investigate without speculation. Disciplinary and legal action will be taken against any individuals found guilty. - August 13, 2025
