MACC seizes cash, vehicles, and freezes bank accounts in major anti-graft operation.
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in Johor has arrested 12 individuals, including seven enforcement officers, for their alleged involvement in a counter-setting syndicate that facilitated the illegal entry of Indonesian nationals.
Arrests Across Johor and Penang
The arrests were made on Tuesday, 23 September 2025, in Johor and Penang as part of Op Setting, an operation conducted by Johor MACC in collaboration with its Intelligence Division. Those detained included 10 men and two women, aged between 20 and 50, who were stationed at Pasir Gudang Ferry Terminal, Muar Ferry Terminal, and Melaka Ferry Terminal.
Modus Operandi of Counter-Setting
Preliminary investigations revealed that the officers had allegedly received more than RM490,000 in bribes from agents and runners. The syndicate reportedly enabled the illegal entry of Indonesian nationals from 2024 to early 2025. Counter-setting involves border officers manipulating systems or bypassing procedures to facilitate illegal migration and human trafficking in exchange for bribes.
Assets and Accounts Seized
During the raids, MACC confiscated RM50,000 in cash, IDR71 million (RM17,910), a Toyota Vellfire worth RM115,000, and an Italjet Dragster motorcycle valued at RM30,000. Authorities also moved to freeze 25 bank accounts belonging to 13 individuals, totaling RM1.2 million.
Court Proceedings and Remand Orders
The Johor Bahru Sessions Court granted a six-day remand order for two suspects until 29 September, while 10 others were remanded for five days until 28 September. Two other suspects were released on MACC bail. The case is being investigated under Section 17(a) and Section 16(a)(B) of the MACC Act 2009.
Official Confirmation
Johor MACC director Hairuzam Mohmad Amin@Hamim confirmed the arrests and emphasized the commission’s commitment to dismantling syndicates exploiting Malaysia’s border security systems. He noted that investigations are ongoing and further action may be taken against those involved.
Broader Impact on Border Integrity
The arrests underscore ongoing challenges in combating corruption at Malaysia’s maritime entry points. By targeting counter-setting practices, the MACC seeks to strengthen border integrity, prevent human trafficking, and restore public trust in enforcement agencies.
The Johor MACC’s operation against the counter-setting syndicate marks a significant blow to corruption networks at Malaysia’s sea checkpoints. With millions seized, accounts frozen, and officers arrested, the case highlights both the scale of graft and the government’s determination to safeguard its borders against systemic abuse.
Sources: Malay Mail (2025) , The Edge Malaysia (2025)
Keywords: Johor MACC, Counter Setting, Corruption Syndicate, Human Trafficking, Border Control, Malaysia Corruption
