Don't let arrests interfere with duties, says Customs D-G

KAJANG: Malaysian Customs officers have been advised not to let the recent arrest of their colleagues interfere in their duties, said department director-general Datuk Seri Khazali Ahmad.  

"I have told my staff not to take things personally, they must continue to work and produce good work," he said, after attending the launch of the Leading SMEs Towards the GST Era roadshow Sunday. 

Khazali said he was reviewing his department's operating procedures following the arrest of 22 individuals, including a state director and 10 other Customs personnel for corruption.

"With a review comes changes and I am discussing what needs to be done with my directors in Selangor and at headquarters," he said. 

He also reassured the public the department would carry out their duties professionally.

"Don't worry, we will continue to work with integrity and responsibility. The public can be assured of good service from the department," he said. 

Khazali reiterated the department would cooperate fully with all agencies involved in the investigations. 

The suspects were arrested in simultaneous raids in the Klang Valley in a joint operation involving the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, police, Bank Negara and CyberSecurity. 

Authorities believe those picked-up are members of a massive cigarette and alcohol smuggling syndicate.