The MACC seized nearly RM800,000 in cash stored in bedrooms during a raid on two Immigration Department officers linked to a syndicate that smuggled in foreigners through a “counter setting” modus operandi.
MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki said 60 individuals, including 50 enforcement officers, were found to be involved in the operation.
“A total of 37 investigation papers have been opened, and statements have been recorded from 95 individuals.
“A sum of RM518,250 in cash was found at the home of a Grade KP22 senior immigration officer in Pahang. The money was placed in a suitcase in the bedroom.
“In addition, RM248,443 in cash was seized from a Grade KP19 immigration officer in Malacca. The money was found under the bed in the master bedroom,” he said during a press conference in Putrajaya today.
Azam added that the MACC also seized foreign currency, including US$9,900 and 5,470 Baht.
Mastermind arrested
Apart from the two officers, Azam said another raid was conducted on a Grade KP22 senior immigration officer in Negeri Sembilan.
From this raid, the MACC seized 27 gold dinars weighing 575.75g, estimated to be worth over RM200,000; 75 pieces of jewellery, including rings, bracelets, necklaces, pendants, and earrings; more than 12 branded watches; and over 30 smartphones of various brands along with laptops.
Azam further stated that nine vehicles and 13 motorcycles believed to have been purchased using the proceeds from the illegal activities were also confiscated.
Elaborating, Azam said the syndicate’s mastermind is a senior immigration officer who is “influential” within the syndicate and will be charged in court early next month.
The suspect, who is in his early 40s and has served in the Immigration Department for 20 years, previously escaped during an earlier operation but was apprehended on Sept 5.
“The suspect we arrested is the mastermind. He controlled approximately 50 immigration officers because of his influence.
“He acted as the ‘focal person’ for almost all immigration officers, ensuring that they carried out his orders,” Azam added.
Additionally, he said four other agents involved will be charged in court soon. - Mkini
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