Authorities have uncovered an illegal factory in Gambang believed to be involved in the storage and processing of electronic waste (e-waste), seizing items worth an estimated RM6.4 million during a joint enforcement operation.
The raid, conducted under Op Hazard, involved the General Operations Force (GOF), the Pahang Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, the Department of Environment (DoE) and the Kuantan City Council.
A 27-year-old man who identified himself as the factory manager was detained during the operation, which took place at approximately 3.10pm on Monday.
GOF Southeast Brigade Commander Senior Assistant Commissioner Ahmad Radzi Hussain said enforcement officers inspected the premises and discovered a large quantity of electronic and industrial materials stored inside the facility.
Among the items seized were jumbo-sized bags containing computer circuit boards, electronic components and copper weighing approximately 20,000 kilogrammes.
The raiding team also found dozens of electrical power distribution components, including switchgear systems commonly used in electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure.
Further inspections uncovered around 8,000 litres of transformer insulating oil, 400 litres of diesel fuel and a pump believed to be used in operations at the site.
According to Ahmad Radzi, the factory manager was arrested after failing to provide documents proving ownership of the goods discovered during the inspection.
During questioning, the suspect allegedly claimed that the items had been disposed of by Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) and transported to the factory for dismantling and processing.
However, investigations later revealed that the materials stored at the premises belonged to a company registered in Kelantan.
Authorities believe the factory was being used as a temporary storage facility before the goods were transported to Kelantan for further handling.
The operation also uncovered that the premises was operating without a valid business licence or permit, prompting enforcement action by the relevant authorities.
All seized e-waste materials were handed over to the Department of Environment for further investigation, while the diesel fuel was transferred to the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living for enforcement proceedings.
Illegal e-waste operations have become an increasing concern due to environmental risks posed by improper disposal and processing of electronic components, which can release hazardous substances into the environment.
The case is being investigated under the Environmental Quality Act 1974, the Control of Supplies Act 1961 and the Trade, Business and Industrial Licensing By-Laws 1992.
Authorities said investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the operation and whether additional individuals or companies were involved.
