KUALA LUMPUR — One arrest was made by the anti-graft authority last night in relation to suspected corruption in the inspection of heavy vehicles at a branch of the Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom).
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in a statement said initial investigations have found that the man arrested had paid bribes amounting to “hundreds of ringgit” for each vehicle to pass checks for roadworthiness.
The suspect, a male in his 40s, was brought to the Putrajaya Magistrate’s Court this morning and was remanded for seven days. The remand order was granted by Magistrate Joanne Tan Xin Ying after allowing the application by MACC.
The individual was handed to MACC by the Road Transport Department (RTD) yesterday evening. He was detained after MACC recorded his statement at its Putrajaya headquarters.
“This case is being investigated under Section 16(b)(A) of the MACC Act 2009,” MACC’s statement said. The section pertains to corrupt solicitation, acceptance or agreement to accept any gratification.
“MACC reiterates its commitment to continue fighting corruption, especially in the enforcement sector, to ensure that public services in this country remain transparent, have integrity, and are trusted by the people,” MACC added.
RTD and MACC have embarked on a joint operation to investigate allegations of bribery in the passing of heavy vehicle inspections at Puspakom centres.
Puspakom CEO Mahmood Razak Bahman said the probe was launched following the fatal road accident involving three vehicles on the North-South Expressway near the Ayer Keroh R&R on Dec 23 that killed seven people, including a baby girl.
RTD has been conducting spot checks on Puspakom centres nationwide, while also looking at how approvals have been given for faulty vehicles sent in for inspection.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke has vowed a crackdown on corruption in vehicles inspections and said the ministry is working with MACC to address integrity issues at Puspakom. – January 4, 2025