KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is intensifying its probe into enforcement officers suspected of colluding with a powerful smuggling syndicate dealing in tobacco, cigarettes, and cigars—a racket believed to have cost the government more than RM250 million in lost tax revenue.
According to sources, the officers allegedly acted as “facilitators,” ensuring contraband cleared checkpoints without scrutiny, safeguarding warehouse operations, and deliberately ignoring illegal consignments.
The revelations surfaced after a series of raids under Op Sikaro, during which MACC—assisted by the Inland Revenue Board (IRB), Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), and the Customs Department—targeted 14 companies across the Klang Valley and Johor. Investigators believe the syndicate paid off enforcement personnel with regular cash payments or through intermediaries, using fixed amounts to avoid detection.
The group’s modus operandi reportedly relied on falsified import declarations, manipulation of customs codes, and altered product descriptions. Illicit goods were stored in private warehouses before entering the domestic market.
On Tuesday, enforcement teams raided tobacco, cigar, and liquor businesses, freezing personal and corporate bank accounts valued at RM218 million. Customs has since suspended the import licences of several companies implicated in the scheme.
Investigators are also tracking suspected links between the syndicate and enforcement officers, with current efforts focused on asset seizures under anti–money laundering measures.
MACC Special Operations senior director Datuk Mohamad Zamri Zainul Abidin confirmed the raids, noting the probe is being pursued under Section 16 of the MACC Act 2009 and Section 4(1) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (AMLATFPUAA).
