MACC Smashes Langkawi Luxury Cars Duty Evasion Scheme, 7 Arrested

The News Straits Time (NST) reports that up to 7 individuals were nabbed by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in Langkawi. These individuals operated an syndicate that illicitly reduced duties on luxury cars on said resort island.

The MACC estimates that this syndicate, which was smashed in a daring operation held in July 2023, resulted in the staggering losses of over RM33 million in taxes for the government. All 7 individuals are set to be charged in the Alor Tar Sessions Court, Kedah today and tomorrow.

The seven detainees, identified as operators and 'runners' of a luxury car warehouse in Langkawi, will face more than 21 charges under Section 468 and Section 471 of the Penal Code and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Act 2001.

A sources reportedly told NST that said operation conducted by the MACC was prompted by reported of Customs duty under-collection that spanned from 2012 to 2021. “The Auditor General's Report 2022 (LKAN 2022) disclosed leakages exceeding RM72 million related to the sale of over 100 luxury cars,” adds the source.

After smashing this syndicate, the MACC is now tracing over 100 ultra high-end luxury cars suspected to be involved in said syndicate. It includes makes and models from Ferrari, Lamborghini, Bentley, McLaren, and more. (Image: YouTube screengrab)

The operation revealed that the syndicate colluded with luxury car owners seeking unwarranted exemptions and duty reductions. The syndicate used false names in car registrations to deceive customs during purchases. Uncovered too were corruption at the Duty Free Centre (PBC).

As a result, the MACC is now tracing over 100 luxury cars suspected to involved in this duty evasion scheme. It includes ultra high-end makes and models that include Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, Bentley, McLaren, as well as Rolls-Royce.

According to MACC Special Operations Division senior director Datuk Azmi Kamaruzaman, all suspects would also face charges under Section 468 for forgery and Section 471 of the Penal Code for fraudulent or dishonest use of genuine documents.

He also adds that MACC is investigating vehicle owners under Section 4(1)(b) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorist Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (AMLATFPUAA 2001) for possessing and disposing of the proceeds of this serious criminal activity.