MACC arrests 14 linked to 'sale' of driving licences in Sarawak

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has arrested 14 people, including three officers from the Road Transport Department (RTD) to facilitate investigations into the 'sale' of driving licences for between RM2,500 and RM2,800 each in Sarawak.

State MACC director Datuk Badrul Shah Norman said the suspects aged between 19 and 50 were picked up in a special operation carried out in Limbang, Miri, Bintulu and Sibu since Jan 11.

"Those detained comprise three RTD officers, nine members of the public who wished to obtain driving licence, and two individuals acting as 'middle-men'," he said in a statement.

Badrul Shah said the RTD officers and one of the 'middle-men' were remanded for a week to facilitate investigations.

"Initial MACC investigations have indicated that bribes were given to obtain licences to drive vehicles of various classes, without taking a driving test," he said.

He said the parties were found trying to obtain the licences by submitting false documents to change Brunei driving licences into Malaysian ones.

"It has been estimated that a price of between RM2,500 to RM2,800 was paid for each licence, according to the class of vehicle being applied for."

Badrul Shah said the special operation was ongoing, adding that many more individuals suspected to be linked to the syndicate would be arrested.

Those who have information pertaining to the matter are requested to contact the Sarawak MACC at 082-467701 or 082-467702 to help in investigations.