Thursday 28 Mar 2024
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(May 14): An anti-graft operation against illegal logging has seized more than 1,570 logs estimated worth of RM1 million and raided 49 locations in six areas across Sarawak since it was launched on May 12.

The Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission (MACC) said owners of logging companies and sawmills that were raided would be called to give their statements.

MACC Investigation Division chief Datuk Mohamad Jamidan Abdullah said the focus of investigations would be to determine the source of the illegally felled timber that were sent to these sawmills.

"MACC also has called 14 individuals including director and manager of the sawmills and log ponds to help with the investigation."

Ops Gergaji also intends to curb tax evasion by owners of logging companies, he added.

At least 400 officers and personnel are involved and come from the peninsular, Sabah and Sarawak from different government agencies, including the police, Forestry Department and Inland Revenue Board

Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Adenan Satem, who assumed office in February last year, recently declared war on illegal logging.

The MACC yesterday announced that as part of its crackdown on illegal logging, the bank accounts of 30 companies and individuals have been frozen, totalling RM600 million.

The logs seized so far have come from interior areas in Sarawak such as Belaga and Bakun. – The Malaysian Insider

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