Customs to work with MACC on smuggling case

KUALA LUMPUR: The Customs Department will work with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in the latter’s probes into 34 Customs officers allegedly involved in the smuggling of billions of ringgit worth of contraband. The department said it would review its practices, procedures and work protocols to close opportunities for corruption.

It said any action against the officers would be made based on the results of the MACC’s investigation.

“The department takes note of the arrest of its 34 officers.

“It will seek views and suggestions from the MACC Inspection and Consultation Division for improvements. The department will cooperate with MACC to combat corruption to uphold its reputation in the eyes of the public.”

It said it would not compromise or protect officers involved in misconduct and integrity violations, including corruption.

It added that the department was taking measures to curb corruption and leakages at border checkpoints.

These included improving import and export procedures at entry points, especially regarding manifests or airway bill controls and declarations, to ensure compliance and good governance, as well as establishing checks and balances.

“We have strengthened the integrity screening processes for officers in high-risk areas, including for processes regarding import and export. We are intensifying enforcement operations to combat smuggling,” it said.

On Friday, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said 34 Customs officers were detained, suspected of being involved in the smuggling of contraband, resulting in up to RM2 billion in losses for the country in two years.

He said the smuggling, which involved chewing tobacco, cigarettes, alcohol, health products and vehicle spare parts, was conducted at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Cargo in Sepang.

Azam said the officers allegedly received bribes in exchange for allowing cargo to pass through without checks or declaration.