Officers from the MACC headquarters today conducted a major raid in Penang related to the construction of the state's massive undersea tunnel project.

Sources in MACC said the raid began at 9am, with targets including several companies working on the tunnel project, which aims to link the island at Gurney Drive to Bagan Ajam on the mainland.

It is learnt that the MACC raided the state secretariat office in Komtar, the state public works department (JKR), and the state Land and Mines Department.

The offices of developer Ewin-Zenith Sdn Bhd, 555 Capital Sdn Bhd and Konsortium Zenith in the capital Georgetown were also raided.

While Penang executive councillor Chow Kon Yeow said he was not aware of any MACC raid, state secretary Farizan Darus (photo) confirmed that federal MACC officers were present at the state economic development corporation's office on Komtar's 25th level.

"They visited and collected documents related to the project. There were no arrests," he told Malaysiakini.

Another state exco, who declined to be named, said: "I was in the state secretary's office and did not hear about any MACC raid."

Konsortium Zenith CEO Zarul Ahmad was not available for comment.

According to Malay daily Berita Harian, MACC deputy chief Azam Baki (photo) said the raid was carried out to assist investigations related to the mega project.

"The raid was carried out based on new evidence related to the construction of the undersea tunnel which was submitted to MACC," Azam was quoted as saying.

The Penang undersea tunnel, estimated to cost RM6.3 billion, has been targeted and scrutinised by BN politicians, who allege corruption in the project.