Home Minister assures thorough investigation into MACC officers theft case

KUALA LUMPUR: The police have started investigations on the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) officers involved over the alleged theft of case materials amounting to more than RM25mil, says Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin.

The Home Minister said the police had received a report regarding the case and investigation papers were opened under the classified police enquiry paper.

"The ministry guarantees that any police report received will be investigated according to the present legislation," he said during his winding-up speech as Home Minister at Parliament on Wednesday (Sept 22).

Hamzah was responding to Gobind Singh Deo (PH-Puchong), who raised the issue of the MACC officers who allegedly stole confiscated money that was believed to belong to former Malaysian External Intelligence Organisation (MEOI) director-general Datuk Hasanah Abdul Hamid.

Gobind then spoke subsequently and questioned why the case was being investigated internally.

In response, Hamzah denied that the case was being internally investigated by MACC itself and stressed that the probe would be done by the police.

He also gave an assurance that the officers would be charged if found guilty.

"We will ascertain this case as soon as possible. I have discussed with the police to ensure that this case is expedited due to public interest.

Gobind then asked Hamzah whether MACC chief commissioner Datuk Seri Azam Baki would be placed on temporary leave while investigations were ongoing.

"I take note of your proposal," said Hamzah in response.

"I know many have proposed this but nevertheless, let us investigate a little further before deciding next," he added.

Three MACC officers were detained on Monday (Sept 20) to assist investigations into allegations of abuse of power and malpractice in the case involving the theft of case materials.

The three officers are remanded under Section 117 of the Criminal Procedure Code for six days from Sept 14 till 19.