Uncovered: Smuggling syndicate orchestrated by high-ranking military personnel in Malaysia
Breaking News: Major Smuggling Syndicate Disrupted in Ops Sohor Operation
In a significant development, a large-scale smuggling syndicate has been disrupted in Malaysia following the arrest of five senior military officers and five civilians during coordinated dawn raids on August 13, 2025. The operation, named Ops Sohor, was conducted by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission's (MACC) Intelligence Division and tactical squad.
The suspects, including two retired military officers, are accused of leaking military operational information to facilitate smuggling activities. The arrested military officers were from the Armed Forces' intelligence unit, tasked with preventing such activities, but allegedly colluded with the smugglers.
The smuggling syndicate dealt with tobacco, cigarettes, cigars, and drugs, causing significant financial losses to the Malaysian government, estimated at RM250 million in tax revenue over five years. The illicit gains generated by the suspects are estimated to be over 3 million ringgit (US$712,000) per month. Bribes for each smuggling trip are believed to range between 30,000 and 50,000 ringgit.
Among those arrested, an Indonesian national is aged between 30 and 55. The five senior military officers were from the Malaysian Armed Forces intelligence unit, with some being retired personnel from the same division. The five civilians included two journalists formerly military intelligence personnel from a news portal, a company manager, an administrative assistant from the Malaysian Medical Association, a foreign woman, and other associates.
One army officer arrested was believed to be the mastermind behind drug trafficking within the syndicate; a joint raid uncovered drugs, cash, weapons, and smuggling equipment. The investigations into the case are ongoing.
This case underscores the importance of upholding integrity and accountability within the military and government institutions. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the authorities to ensure the safety and security of the nation.
[1] Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission [2] The Star Online [3] Bernama News Agency [4] New Straits Times [5] The Edge Markets
- The disrupted smuggling syndicate's activities extended to multiple sectors, including military politics, as two retired military officers were among those arrested for leaking operational information.
- The ongoing Ops Sohor operation, led by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, has not only unveiled a significant crime-and-justice case but also highlighted the need for general-news media to remain vigilant in reporting reasonable suspicions, ensuring the protection of national interests.
