The Road Transport Department (JPJ) in Melaka has revealed that some foreign nationals have been found purchasing motorcycles from local owners for as low as RM800 through illegal transactions before using them on public roads.
Melaka JPJ director Siti Zarina Mohd Yusop said the activity was uncovered during the Foreign Driver Operation (Op Pewa) conducted from June 16 until yesterday at several hotspot locations across the state.
She said a total of 60 vehicles were seized throughout the operation, comprising 47 motorcycles, nine cars, two goods vehicles (KPB), and two other types of vehicles.
According to her, the cases involved foreign nationals from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Rohingya, Indonesia, Myanmar and other countries.
“All vehicles were seized for various offences, including driving without a valid licence, expired road tax, and lack of insurance coverage,” she said.
Investigations also found that most of the vehicles were purchased in cash from local owners without proper ownership transfer procedures, at prices ranging between RM800 and RM1,500.
She added that while many of the motorcycles were old, some were still in good condition as they had been provided by employers for work purposes.
A total of 243 vehicles were inspected during the operation, with 196 notices issued for various offences.
JPJ stressed that the operation was not targeted at any specific group but aimed at ensuring all road users comply with traffic laws.
Vehicle owners may also face action if they are found to have allowed unlicensed individuals to use their vehicles.
