Authorities uncover shocking discovery at an illegal scrap facility in Kota Tinggi

Authorities in Johor have made a disturbing discovery at an illegal factory in Kota Tinggi, where a massive haul of electronic waste (e-waste), plane parts, and live ammunition was seized. The factory, which had been operating unlawfully for months, was raided by police, leading to the arrest of three foreign nationals. Investigators are now working to determine the origins of the seized items and the potential risks associated with them.

The illegal factory was uncovered in a police raid on March 7, 2025, at an industrial site in Kota Tinggi, Johor. Authorities confiscated over 46,000 kg of e-waste, airplane components from an international airline, and large quantities of ammunition and bullet casings. Three foreign workers—one from China and two from Myanmar—were detained at the site.

Shocking Discovery in Kota Tinggi

Acting on intelligence, police officers from Kota Tinggi conducted a raid at around 4 PM at an unlicensed scrap processing factory on Jalan Lombong. Upon entry, they discovered an overwhelming amount of discarded electronic components, compacted wires, and industrial metal scrap. However, the biggest shock came when authorities found aviation parts and multiple barrels filled with bullets and bullet casings, raising suspicions about the nature of the factory’s operations.

“We also found parts of a commercial plane, including its components, that we believe are a plane gearbox,” said Kota Tinggi police chief Yusof Othman.

Authorities revealed that the factory had been running illegally for at least five months without the necessary permits for e-waste processing or firearms-related materials. The lack of oversight posed severe environmental risks, as the improper disposal of e-waste can result in hazardous contamination. Kota Tinggi District Council President Muhamad Syahrizat Alwee confirmed that the factory was previously an electronics facility but was later repurposed by unknown operators for illegal activities.

“This syndicate not only poses a threat to public safety but also has the potential to harm the environment due to the uncontrolled disposal of processed e-waste,” added Yusof.

Kota Tinggi District Council President Muhamad Syahrizat Alwee confirmed that the factory was previously an electronics facility but was later repurposed for illegal activities without approval.

Police Seize Ammunition and Plane Parts

Among the confiscated materials were:

• 369,954 kg of copper
• 103,983 kg of compacted electronic waste
• 22,791 kg of electrical wires
• Seven barrels of bullet casings
• One barrel of live ammunition

The presence of airplane components, suspected to include a gearbox from a commercial aircraft, has prompted an extensive investigation into whether these parts were stolen or illegally scrapped.

“The discovery of seven barrels of bullet casings and one barrel containing live ammunition is highly concerning, as these items could be misused for criminal activities if they fall into the wrong hands,” Yusof emphasized.

Legal Action Against the Suspects

The three arrested individuals, aged between 23 and 50, are being held under multiple charges, including:

• Section 8 of the Arms Act 1960 – Possession of bullet casings and live ammunition without authorization.
• Environmental Quality Act 1974 – Illegal storage of hazardous electronic waste.
• Immigration Act 1959/63 – Failing to provide valid work documents.

Authorities confirmed that the suspects tested negative for drugs. The factory has been sealed until March 15, 2025, while investigations continue into the origins of the seized items and potential links to international smuggling networks.

“All three suspects have been remanded for four days until Tuesday (March 11) to assist in the investigation. We will not tolerate any illegal activities and will take firm action to ensure public safety and order,” Yusof stressed.

The shocking discovery of aviation parts, live ammunition, and massive amounts of e-waste at an illegal Johor factory raises serious concerns about environmental safety, regulatory enforcement, and potential security threats. The presence of unauthorized aircraft components and firearms-related materials suggests possible ties to illegal trafficking networks. Authorities in Malaysia are now focused on tracking the origins of these materials and ensuring such illicit operations are permanently shut down.

Sources: Free Malaysia Today (2025), The Star (2025)

Keywords: Kota Tinggi, Plane Parts, Bullet Casings, E-Waste, Illegal Factory, Johor Police, Environmental Hazard