MACC SEIZING MILLIONS OF TONNES OF BAUXITE STOCKPILES
KUANTAN: The Malaysian AntiCorruption Commission (MACC) is moving to seize all bauxite stockpiles, totalling more than 10 million tonnes, in Pahang.
The mass seizure came after MACC’s latest crackdown on illegal bauxite mining in the state, which saw the arrests of a senior Customs enforcement officer, 10 state Land and Mines Office (PTG) enforcement officers and a PTG general assistant.
Until yesterday, six PTG officers have been released on MACC bail, while the others are under remand to facilitate a probe into an alleged graft case that was said to be shielding miners from law enforcement in unlawful bauxite mining.
MACC is seeking to prevent the lucrative mineral from being removed and traded, or for other purposes.
MACC deputy chief commissioner (operations) Datuk Azam Baki yesterday said confiscation would be done under Section 33 of the MACC Act 2009.
He warned any party against violating the seizure notice, which would lead to punishment under Section 69 of the same act.
“Action to seize bauxite will encompass the entirety of stockpile on government and private land identified in the state.
“It is estimated that more than 10 million metric tonnes of bauxite have been mined and stored in stockpiles in several locations in Pahang,” Azam said.
He said MACC had begun discussions with the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry and suggested that the ministry review the issuance of approved permits (AP) to bauxite miners and cancel all AP previously issued.
“The seizure is necessary to help MACC carry out investigations into illegal bauxite mining. MACC will also monitor all bauxite exports at the Kuantan Port.”