Sabah: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has crippled an illegal imported frozen chicken syndicate in Sabah, which is believed to have bribed enforcement officers at a port in the state.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the operation, dubbed 'Op Chick', was conducted by the MACC Intelligence Division in collaboration with the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, resulting in the seizure of 10 containers of frozen chicken illegally imported from China this morning.

Based on preliminary investigations, the containers filled with frozen chicken had been falsely declared and had not undergone the prescribed inspection process.

Following the operation, the MACC detained three men in their 30s and 50s who were acting as forwarding agents and company managers. The MACC is also identifying other individuals believed to be involved, a source told Bernama.

Meanwhile, MACC Chief Commissioner Datuk Seri Abd Halim Aman, when contacted, confirmed the operation and arrests, adding that the case is being investigated under Section 17 of the MACC Act 2009. He said the three suspects would be brought before the Kota Kinabalu Magistrate's Court tomorrow for a remand order to assist investigations.