The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has crippled an illegal frozen chicken import syndicate in Sabah, believed to have bribed authorities at a port to facilitate the unlawful entry of the goods.
According to a source, 10 containers containing frozen chicken believed to have been illegally imported from China were seized during an operation codenamed Op Chick on Tuesday morning.
The operation was conducted by the MACC Intelligence Division in collaboration with the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM).
Preliminary investigations found that the containers had allegedly been falsely declared and had not gone through the required inspection procedures, raising concerns over possible weaknesses in the import and clearance process.
Following the operation, the MACC arrested three men aged between their 30s and 50s. The suspects are believed to have acted as shipping agents and company managers.
The anti-graft agency is also working to identify other individuals suspected of being involved in the syndicate.
MACC Chief Commissioner Datuk Sri Abd Halim Aman confirmed the operation and arrests when contacted.
“The three suspects will be brought before the Kota Kinabalu Magistrates’ Court tomorrow to seek a remand order to assist investigations,” he said.
The case is being investigated under Section 17 of the MACC Act 2009, which covers offences involving the giving or receiving of gratification in connection with an agency.
