Cops to probe ‘interference’

KUALA LUMPUR: Six police reports have been lodged in connection with Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador’s allegation of political interference in the police force and a purported attempt by Home Minister Hamzah Zainudin to use the Special Branch for political gains.

Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani said an investigation into the matter was already underway.

“We will record the statements from all relevant individuals in the case.

“So far, we have received six reports on the matter nationwide. Give us time to investigate, ” he told a special press conference in Bukit Aman yesterday.

“Once all the statements have been recorded, the matter will then be referred to the Attorney General’s Chambers for further action.”

Last Friday, Abdul Hamid claimed that Hamzah had purportedly tried to influence the transfers of police officers as the president of the Police Force Commission (SPP).

He also alleged recently that Hamzah attempted to use the Special Branch Department for his own political gains.

On another matter, Acryl Sani said the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) had identified a few candidates for the Deputy IGP post.

He said he would discuss the list of candidates with the Home Minister and Home Ministry’s secretary-general before the shortlisted names could be referred to the SPP.

“The SPP will decide who will be the next Deputy IGP.

“The appointment of Deputy IGP is very important and it will be expedited. It will be done along with the appointments of several Bukit Aman department directors, to replace those who are set to retire, ” he said.

Acryl Sani said he expected the candidate for Deputy IGP would be known in a few days after the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration.

Previously, a few Bukit Aman directors were speculated to be considered as the next Deputy IGP.

The post was left vacant after Acryl Sani was appointed as the nation’s top cop.

Among the names considered for the post are Bukit Aman Integrity and Standard Compliance Department director Comm Datuk Zamri Yahya, Management director Datuk Ramli Din and Logistics department director Datuk Seri Mazlan Lazim.

A few directors are also scheduled to retire between May and September and will result in other movements within the police force.

One of the hottest speculation is the next destination for Johor police chief Comm Datuk Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, who is rumoured to succeed Comm Datuk Huzir Mohamed as Bukit Aman CID director.