MACC seizes another RM29mil in ministry theft probe

KUALA LUMPUR: Graft-busters have seized another RM29mil in its probe into the alleged embezzlement of a ministry's funds for rural projects.

Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Dzulkifli Ahmad said this was following the seizure of more than RM150mil in a "recent Sabah case".

He said this in his speech during the 9th International Conference on Financial Crime and Terrorism Financing here Thursday morning.

More than RM150mil in cash were seized on Wednesday when investigators swooped in on 15 locations in Sabah during an operation.

It is understood that the case involves the Rural and Regional Development Ministry.

According to reports, funds to carry out projects meant to help the rural community were siphoned off by certain officials believed to be working in cahoots with several companies.

These projects included those to improve basic amenities and infrastructure, such as the upgrading of water and electricity supplies, as well as the repair and maintenance of roads in areas where the hardcore poor lived.

The culprits are believed to have pocketed more than RM100mil.

It is learnt that the thefts, which occurred over several years, had gone undetected.