MACC chief Abu Kassim warns those who obstruct probes

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) on Thursday issued a stern warning against those out to halt any of its investigations.

In a strongly-worded speech, MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Abu Kassim Mohamed said the murder of deputy public prosecutor Anthony Kevin Morais would not affect the outcome of the investigations.

“You can win your battle to hide the evidence from the eye of law enforcement, but you can’t hide from the eye of the public.

“Their action may have delayed the investigation and prosecution, but be reminded that we will continue to pursue the cases in court," he said at the ceremony to rename the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Academy moot court in Morais' memory.

Abu Kassim was scheduled to address the crowd but had asked his deputy, Datuk Seri Shukri Abdull, to read his speech as he was unwell.

On the 'macai' (lackeys) who conspire to obstruct investigations or corruption trials, Abu Kassim said:

"They may get paid for what they did, but this will not guarantee them any peace and solace. Their evil deeds will continue to haunt them for the rest of their lives.

"When people find out what they have done, they will be humiliated by the people. At that point of time, only do they realise that there is no more value left in their dignity," he said.

Abu Kassim explained that steps had been taken to ensure the effectiveness and freedom from interference of investigations.

He pointed out that these were emphasised by second  Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak, when he introduced the Emergency Ordinance that gave full autonomy to the Anti-Corruption Agency (now MACC).

"In today's world, there is no place for any parties or individuals that want to avoid investigation.

"They can avoid from being traced for a certain period - one month, two months, a year or two - but not forever.

"Remember, the investigation will not stop when someone tries to hide the evidence or abduct witnesses.

"If proven guilty, the court is the place for them to be judged and sentenced, no matter if he is a regular citizen, businessman, corporate figure or a political leader," Abu Kassim said.