Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) revealed today that Johor Regent, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, had provided information that assisted the investigations under Op Sohor, which are currently still ongoing. Its chief commissioner, Tan Sri Azam Baki, stated that the Regent also expressed a desire to curb smuggling at the country's borders.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tan Sri Azam Baki informed the media that the Regent of Johor has been very cooperative in addressing this issue and aims to eliminate such illegal activities. He added that the syndicate involved is believed to operate primarily in the southern region of the country, and no new arrests have been made at this stage.
Azam mentioned that while no new arrests have been made, the investigation might reveal links to other parties, particularly in the context of money laundering. The MACC is committed to thoroughly investigating any potential connections to ensure all involved parties are held accountable.
The chief commissioner also shared that the commission is examining the role of an online media company where two suspects, arrested under Op Sohor, were employed. He confirmed that these suspects were not affiliated with any mainstream media outlets but worked for a company that is currently under scrutiny for its purpose and operations. Azam suggested that the suspects acted as enablers by leaking information to the syndicate.
The MACC previously arrested five senior armed forces officers on Wednesday for allegedly leaking military operation information to smugglers. The officers are accused of colluding with a syndicate to smuggle contraband, including drugs and cigarettes, estimated to be worth RM5 million monthly.
Meanwhile, during his speech at the Anti-Corruption Graduates Convention (KOMAWAR), Azam emphasized the event's role in providing education on corruption and integrity. The biennial KOMAWAR aims to instill values and build character among university students, shaping a generation of graduates committed to rejecting corruption and supporting integrity and transparency in the country's administration.