KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 29 — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has raided companies suspected of tyre smuggling and falsifying import and export documents that cost the government about RM350 million in lost tax revenue since 2020.
The raids were carried out under an integrated operation called Ops Grip, led by the MACC’s Special Operations Division with support from the Inland Revenue Board, Bank Negara Malaysia and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department.
Authorities targeted 23 locations across the Klang Valley, Penang and Johor, including tyre import businesses, warehouses and storage containers.
Investigators froze private and corporate bank accounts linked to the suspects, involving an estimated RM70 million.
The investigation is also tracing other assets allegedly acquired by customs officials or tyre importers through money-laundering activities.
A source warned that the influx of substandard used tyres posed a serious safety risk and could lead to accidents.
Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) personnel raid an illegal tyre warehouse in Shah Alam on September 29, 2025. — Picture by Yusof Isa
MACC senior operations director Datuk Mohamad Zamri Zainul Abidin confirmed the raids, saying the probe is being conducted under Section 18 of the MACC Act 2009 and Section 4(1) of the Anti-Money Laundering Act 2001.
He said the commission would not compromise with anyone seeking profit through corruption, money laundering or smuggling that harms the country.
