THE Ministry of Transport Malaysia (MOT) has expressed full support for action taken by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in arresting enforcement officers suspected of acting as middlemen for a tonto cartel — an illegal tip-off network providing protection to commercial vehicle operators in exchange for bribes.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said he had been informed in advance of the joint operation conducted together with the Road Transport Department (JPJ), aimed at defending the department’s image, credibility, and integrity against elements that cannot be tolerated.
Operation Intelligence Was Being Leaked
Anthony said his ministry had previously received multiple complaints — including from lorry operators — regarding the leaking of enforcement operation details to outside parties.
According to him, this situation rendered large-scale operations targeting overloaded lorries significantly less effective, as certain operators would only comply with load limits on the day of an operation after receiving advance tip-offs.
“Based on investigation and surveillance, it was confirmed that internal parties were indeed involved — and arrests were made,” he said.
13 Individuals Remanded
MACC arrested 13 individuals including three enforcement officers believed to be orchestrating the tonto cartel — an operation providing illegal protection to lorry owners across Peninsular Malaysia.
A three-day remand order until 27 February was issued by the Putrajaya Magistrate’s Court to facilitate further investigation.
A Stern Warning
Anthony Loke expressed hope that this firm action would serve as a strong warning to anyone involved in corruption and the leaking of operational intelligence.
“Do not feel and do not think that we are unaware of what you are doing — including lorry operators who pay for tonto services to obtain information. They are also being identified,” he said.
MOT stressed that there will be zero compromise toward any officer who tarnishes the integrity of enforcement and undermines road safety and fairness.
Source: SinarHarian
