MACC detains 8 in heavy vehicle inspection syndicate

The MACC has detained eight individuals, including six officers, on suspicion of involvement in a syndicate approving heavy vehicle checks at an inspection centre in the federal capital.

According to sources, the male suspects, aged between 30 and 50, were detained between noon and 11pm yesterday while giving their statements at the MACC headquarters in Putrajaya.

“The arrests were made following an investigation by the MACC into an agent handed over by the Road Transport Department (RTD) previously.

“The six vehicle inspection officers have been released on bail by the MACC after providing their statements, while two other individuals have been remanded for five days starting today, until Saturday (Jan 11),” a source told Bernama today.

Magistrate Irza Zulaikha Rohanuddin issued the remand order following an application by the MACC at the Putrajaya Magistrate's Court this morning.

Meanwhile, MACC deputy chief commissioner (operations) Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya confirmed the arrests when contacted and said the case is being investigated under Section 16(b)(A) of the MACC Act 2009.

He added that there may be more arrests in the investigation.

Meanwhile, six vehicle inspection officers from Puspakom suspected of being involved in a syndicate approving heavy vehicle inspections have been suspended with immediate effect.

In confirming the suspension, Puspakom CEO Mahmood Razak Bahman said they take the matter seriously and will not tolerate any misconduct, especially involving the integrity of vehicle inspection operations.

“As I have repeatedly said, Puspakom will not compromise on any corruption-related crimes. If evidence of wrongdoing is found, we will not hesitate to take strict action against any staff involved in such activities.

“This includes those colluding with syndicates and carrying out unauthorised vehicle inspection approvals,” he said in a statement today, adding that Puspakom was also conducting an internal investigation

“Puspakom will not protect anyone involved in corruption,” he said as he assured that anyone found linked to the crime would be handed over to the authorities for appropriate action.

- Bernama

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