PETALING JAYA: A senior military officer under investigation over suspicious large flows of cash into his bank accounts has been in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital since Sunday (Dec 28).
Sources said the officer was supposed to present himself at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) headquarters to give his statement on the day he was admitted.
On Saturday (Dec 27), sources said the MACC carried out searches at the Army office at the Defence Ministry as well as at the suspect’s official residence, starting at about 5pm and ending at midnight.
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"The searches did not result in the seizure of any cash," a source said.
"However, the MACC seized several high-value luxury items, including luxury watches and handbags, believed to belong to the senior military officer.
"The luxury assets are believed to be linked to the case."
MACC investigations are currently focusing on the flow of funds suspected to have entered the bank account of the senior officer, allegedly in connection with Army procurement projects.
In a related development, the source said investigations are continuing with the recording of statements from key witnesses, including contractors believed to have secured projects related to the Army.
"So far, the MACC has recorded statements from five company owners, and a total of 10 witnesses have been called to assist in the investigation," the source added.
The MACC is also investigating about 40 companies suspected of being involved in the payment of bribes, with the probe being conducted in stages.
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The MACC is expected to expand its investigation to include financial flow, procurement processes and links between individuals and companies.
Last week, a team of MACC officers visited the ministry to trace projects implemented through open tender procurement as well as procurements under the Army’s Responsibility Centre (PTJ).
MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki also confirmed that an investigation paper has been opened under Section 17(a) of the MACC Act 2009.
"Today (Monday, Dec 29), we conducted searches at several companies believed to be involved in the case to collect documents and evidence.
"We have also seized six bank accounts belonging to the suspect and his family members," he said.
