MACC steps up probe on smuggling after 3k e-waste containers found

MACC will intensify investigations into the illegal importation of electronic waste (e-waste) following intelligence disclosure that between 2,000 and 3,000 containers of e-waste have been smuggled in through the country's main ports.

MACC deputy chief commissioner (Operations) Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya said the number reflected the true scale of e-waste smuggling, which is increasingly worrying and requires more comprehensive enforcement action.

"If not combated comprehensively, it has the potential to cause serious pollution to the country," he said in a statement today.

The companies involved were believed to be owned by foreigners and were importing e-waste, plastic and paper for recycling, he added.

"Valuable components such as copper, alloys and gold were taken, while the remaining waste was disposed of by burning, burying or directly dumping, polluting the air and water resources," he said.

According to Khusairi, MACC does not rule out the possibility of protection from certain authorities that should prevent the entry of the waste.

To address the pressing issue, Khusairi said the E-Waste Enforcement Special Task Force was established with members from 12 agencies, including MACC, Waste Acceptance Control Agency, the police, the Environment Department, the Customs Department and the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry.

The special task force will assess existing laws and tighten operations to close smuggling channels at all entry points into the country.

"This meeting will examine specific laws related to e-waste and implement more effective enforcement actions to ensure that smuggling activities can be eradicated at the grassroots," he said.

Khusairi stressed that the MACC is taking the issue seriously and has warned the authorities involved to immediately stop the importation of e-waste.

- Bernama

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