MACC said it was probing alleged bribes in the form of fraudulent claims for ship maintenance services worked out between company officials and maritime contractors.
“The officers had supposedly filed claims to receive payments for ship maintenance services, but there was no upkeep being done from 2010 to 2013,” it said in a statement.
Among other abuses being investigated are overpayment and improper tender procedures for repair and maintenance work. For example $15.8m was paid in 2012 for repair work on a ship’s fuel tank when earlier estimates valued the repairs at $7.9m.
Another claim involved supposed losses of $12m suffered by the company for ship maintenance work, after they failed to adhere to proper procedures when hiring contractors.
MACC has so far recorded nine statements from MISC employees, including four senior officials.
Meanwhile MISC also released a statement saying it is giving full support to MACC on its probe into the alleged bribery.
“MISC wishes to confirm that the company has been giving its fullest support and cooperation to MACC,” it said.
The shipping line, which mainly runs liquified natural gas (LNG) carriers, said the group has a zero tolerance policy against any form of bribery or corruption by its employees, subsidiaries or any persons or companies acting for MISC or on its behalf.
“MISC is fully committed to the highest standards of integrity and accountability throughout our businesses and operations,” it reiterated.
Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. Seatrade, a trading name of Informa Markets (UK) Limited. Add Seatrade Maritime News to your Google News feed.
