Polis kesan 24 lombong haram, rampas RM119 juta aset

Bukit Aman's Anti-Corruption Department revealed that 24 illegal mining operations, amassing nearly RM119 million in seized assets, were uncovered during Operation Gali Mega across 10 states. The operation, conducted from August 19 to 23, resulted in the arrest of 99 individuals, comprising 61 Malaysian citizens and the remainder being foreign nationals aged between 18 and 64 years old.

The largest seizure included 87 heavy mining equipment valued at approximately RM38.7 million, 55 vehicles worth around RM14 million, and 194 miscellaneous mining tools estimated at roughly RM44.3 million. Additionally, authorities discovered roughly 33,000 hectares of land, valued at nearly RM21 million, containing minerals such as kaolin, limestone, quartz, or sand and gravel.

"Police apprehended 32 individuals and 21 companies involved in these mining activities. The lists of individuals and companies have been handed over to the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRBM) for further investigation to uncover tax evasion," Yusri Hassan Basri stated at a press briefing in Bukit Aman. According to Basri, Sabah reported the highest number of inspection sites with 14, followed by Sarawak (seven), Pahang (six), Selangor (four), Kelantan (three), Terengganu (three), Perak (three), Negeri Sembilan (two), Kedah (two), and Johor (one).

The authorities are still investigating the mining operations and exploring potential connections between activities at various locations. The syndicate is believed to have insider knowledge and expertise in mining, including identifying regions with mineral resources. There is a possibility that foreign experts, including those from China, were involved.

The joint operation will continue in collaboration with the Malaysian Mineral and GeoScience Department and other enforcement agencies to combat illegal mining activities.