MACC detains assistant land officer in Johor

JOHOR BARU: A 56-year-old assistant land officer has been detained here by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) for allegedly accepting a bribe of RM150,000 from a company owner.  

The suspect was arrested Monday for having dealings with the owner over application of permits for land acquisition.  

It is learnt that the suspect had amassed several agricultural plots totalling 30ha and housing plots along with a luxury home in Johor Baru.   

The man was detained by the MACC at its office here and is expected to be charged Tuesday.  

It is learnt that the suspect allegedly received the bribe as a “loan” from the company owner in dealings with the Johor Baru land office on applications and payments for land acquisition permits. 

He also allegedly used his son’s name as proxy in transactions involving Malay reserve land.  

The suspect is believed to have made about RM100,000 in such dealings.  

The MACC has been carrying out investigations since November last year with regards to the case.  

MACC deputy chief commissioner (operations) Datuk Azam Baki confirmed the suspect had been detained and would be charged on Tuesday.