MACC arrests another 13 vehicle inspection officers

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has arrested another 13 vehicle inspection officers at a vehicle inspection centre here.

According to sources, the suspects, all men aged from 20 to 40, were arrested between 1pm and 2pm on Tuesday (Jan 7) and 10am to 3pm today when they went to the MACC headquarters in Putrajaya.

"Preliminary investigations revealed that all are believed to have received bribes ranging from RM150 to RM1,500 per month in cash from runners in return for helping to approve vehicles at their place of duty.

"The arrest of the suspects follows the arrest of six vehicle inspectors last Monday and also the results of an interrogation conducted by MACC on an agent handed over by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) previously," he said.

He said to date, the MACC has arrested 22 suspects including 19 vehicle inspection officers, an agent and two runners involved in the syndicate.

Meanwhile, MACC Deputy Chief Commissioner (Operations) Datuk Seri Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya confirmed the arrests and said the case was being investigated under Section 16(b)(A) of the MACC Act 2009.

He also said all 13 vehicle inspection officers arrested would be released on MACC bail after their statements are recorded.