JOHOR BARU: Police have uncovered illegal e-waste processing centres that were operating in three factories here, seizing more than RM71mil worth of metal and equipment.
Johor police chief Comm Datuk M. Kumar said the authorities raided the premises in Desa Cemerlang, Ulu Tiram, here at 6.10am on Friday, with the operation continuing until 11am.
“The raids were based on a public tip-off about the illegal storage and processing of e-waste at the locations.
“The items seized during the raids include a variety of metals, such as iron, tin, and copper, and automotive, electronic and plastic parts, all stored in 1,369 jumbo gunny sacks and 28 pallets.
“The items are believed to have been brought in from overseas,” he said in a statement yesterday.
Comm Kumar added that 47 units of processing equipment and machinery were also seized, along with 19 square tanks filled with iron powder and automotive components weighing about 41 tonnes.
The raids involved the marine police and Johor Environment Department (DOE) and Johor Baru City Council (MBJB) staff.
The seized items have been handed over to the DOE for further action.
Comm Kumar said two foreign workers were arrested to facilitate further investigations as well as for staying in the country without a valid permit.
The case is also being investigated under the Environmental Quality Act 1974 and MBJB’s bylaws for trade, business, and industrial licensing.
“We will continue weeding out such illegal activities that harm the environment and the well-being of the people.
“The public is also welcome to channel information regarding such activities to us so we can act,” added Comm Kumar.
