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INTERNATIONAL tyre manufacturers will assist Malaysian authorities in verifying the authenticity and safety compliance of nearly 18,000 tyres seized during a nationwide anti-corruption operation by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) earlier this week.
The large-scale enforcement action, known as Ops Grip, targeted suspected tyre smuggling and customs fraud, with simultaneous raids conducted across 23 locations in the Klang Valley, Penang and Johor on Monday.
Bernama cited a source close to the investigation saying: “Initial investigations found that the smuggled tyres consisted of various categories, including new tyres that were not properly declared, used tyres, as well as retreaded tyres that did not meet safety standards.”
The six-month surveillance effort uncovered alleged falsification of import and export documentation, with false declarations made regarding tyre value, classification, and safety certifications to reduce payable taxes.
According to the MACC, the scheme is believed to have cost the government an estimated RM350 million in lost tax revenue since 2020.
So far, no arrests have been made. Investigations are ongoing, with attention also focused on identifying assets allegedly acquired through illicit gains, including money laundering.
The source added that authorities had frozen several personal and corporate bank accounts worth approximately RM70 million linked to the operation.
The seized tyres are currently being inspected, with international manufacturers engaged to determine their legitimacy and compliance with safety regulations. - October 1, 2025
