KUALA LUMPUR – Johor's Regent, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, has been instrumental in providing information to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in its ongoing investigation into a smuggling syndicate linked to senior Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) officers, according to Tan Sri Azam Baki.
The MACC Chief Commissioner said that Tunku Mahkota Ismail, affectionately known as TMJ, has been highly cooperative, stressing the regent’s commitment to eradicating the illegal activities.
"His Highness, as the Regent of Johor, has shown great support in this matter. We’ve received valuable information from his network, which has greatly assisted our efforts," Azam saod during a press briefing today, as quoted by several news media outlets.
The investigation, known as Ops Sohor, is focused on the southern part of the country.
To date, 10 individuals have been remanded, including five senior ATM officers, two social media operatives posing as journalists, a company manager, an administrative assistant from the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA), and a foreign national.
Azam clarified that the two suspects who were initially described as "journalists" were, in fact, social media personnel who had former military backgrounds and had been acting as facilitators by leaking sensitive operational information to the smuggling syndicate.
“These individuals, some of whom have military ties, were instrumental in helping the smuggling syndicate evade law enforcement by disclosing classified details,” he added.
The operation uncovered that the syndicate smuggled goods, including drugs and cigarettes, with an estimated value of around RM5 million per month. Investigations suggest the bribery payments made to the senior military officers involved ranged from RM30,000 to RM50,000 for each smuggling operation.
Azam emphasised that the investigation is ongoing, with no new arrests made as of now, though the MACC continues to examine all evidence that could potentially link other individuals to the syndicate.
“If further connections to money laundering or other illegal activities are found, we will pursue additional leads," Azam confirmed, although he said that there are no further arrests pending at this stage.
The MACC is collaborating closely with the ATM and its leadership, including the Chief of Defence Forces, to ensure a comprehensive investigation that involves all relevant legal frameworks, including corruption, money laundering, and military regulations.
The alleged perpetrators' operation appears to have been active for several years, with the suspects now potentially facing charges under various laws, including those governing military conduct and anti-smuggling operations.
The MACC has referred the narcotics aspect of the investigation to the police’s Narcotics Department.
Azam concluded that further arrests may follow as the investigation continues, with more individuals expected to be questioned if additional evidence emerges. - August 16, 2025
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