Outgoing IGP says up to police to investigate claims of political interference as he hands over reins to Acryl Sani

KUALA LUMPUR: Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador (pic) says it is up to the police to decide if they want to follow up on his allegations of political interference in the force.

The former inspector-general of police, who handed over the post to Datuk Seri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani on Monday (May 3), said he was not lodging a report over the matter.

"I would leave it to the good judgement of Acryl Sani and his men. It does not require me to lodge a police report," he told a press conference following the handing-over ceremony on Monday.

Abdul Hamid said he was confident Acryl Sani would do well and be successful as the country's top policeman.

"He will do good and be successful. I won't poke my nose here and there... unless someone provokes me," he said in jest.

"I wish him all the best. I am sure he will be able to overcome any challenges.

"I am grateful for the strong support given by the police force over the last two years and I hope the same support will be extended to my successor," he added.

While Acryl Sani was happy with his new appointment, he said that being the Inspector-General of Police was not a job one person could do alone and he was fully aware of the responsibility he now carries.

“If I am being honest, it feels like a huge burden has been placed on my shoulders.

"I believe that If I am alone, I will not be able to handle this responsibility.

“In all the times I have been appointed to a new position, be it as OCPD or state police chief, the feelings of doubt will always be in my mind; but I am confident in the line-up of department directors, state chiefs and OCPDs who are with me to ensure that our duties are fulfilled, ” he said.

On his plans for the police force, Acryl Sani said a media briefing will be held on the matter.

In a statement on Sunday (May 2), Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan had urged Acryl Sani to lodge a police report about the alleged political interference.

Sinar Harian quoted the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department as saying that a report would pave the way for an investigation into the allegations.

Meanwhile, Abdul Hamid said he now wanted to focus on his hobby – farming.

"I can finally return to farming. I encourage anyone to learn the basics of farming as it builds stamina and keeps the mind fresh. It is very rewarding," he added.

In his last press conference as IGP on Friday (April 30), Abdul Hamid dropped a bombshell when he said that ministers should not interfere in the management of the police force.