MACC freezes 375 accounts worth RM569 million in Sarawak

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) today froze 375 accounts of companies and individuals worth over RM560 million and seized over 500 logs following a raid on 27 sawmills and log ponds as well as 21 business premises in Sarawak, in the "Ops Gergaji" joint operation today.

MACC Investigation Division director Datuk Mohamad Jamidan Abdullah, in a statement issued by Sarawak MACC here, said the action was taken against the operators of timber and sawmill companies, suspected of being involved in corruption, illegal logging and deforestation and tax evasion.

He said the integrated operation involved at least 400 MACC officers and personnel, Sarawak state government, state Forest Department, state Inland Revenue Board and police.

According to him, the raid was conducted simultaneously in 48 locations, namely Miri (13), Kuching (12), Sibu (12), Bintulu (6), Bakun (3) and Kapit (2), based on a comprehensive investigation from intelligence obtained by MACC and relevant agencies.

"Further investigation will be conducted in accordance with section 17(a) and 17(b) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009 and section 4(1) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001, said the statement.

He said the operation reflected the committment of the government in the fight against corruption in the logging industry and curb rampant illegal logging activites in Sarawak besides protecting the state's natural heritage.

The illegal acitvities were also believed to have incurred billions of ringgit in losses for the government.