PUTRAJAYA: Two cases involving several top military officers are expected to be wrapped up by next week, says Tan Sri Azam Baki.
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner said he has instructed for the investigation papers (IP) for both cases to be referred to the deputy public prosecutor (DPP) by next week.
“For the case involving army procurement, I have instructed investigators to submit the IP on Monday with a recommendation to charge.
“We are recommending for one or two individuals to be charged,” he said, but declined to reveal who will be taken to court.
Azam said 23 individuals have been detained so far, with the MACC opening 22 investigation papers for predicate offences and one investigation paper under money laundering offences.
Investigations are being carried out under Section 17(a) and Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009, as well as Section 4(1) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act (Amla) 2001.
Azam said statements had been recorded from 30 individuals over the course of the two-week investigations.
He explained that in cases of corruption and power abuse, investigations are not limited to examining financial transactions highlighted by the complainant.
“In corruption cases, we must also establish evidence on who offered the bribe and other related elements that need to be presented to the public prosecutor,” he said.
For the second case involving top Armed Forces officers over the misuse of military and Defence Ministry funds, Azam said he has instructed for the IP to be submitted to the DPP by Jan 23.
“We have recommended at least two top officers be charged,” he added.
So far, the MACC have detained two top military officers this week.
Four other Armed Forces officers as well as nine civilians had been detained since investigations began on Oct 7 last year.
Azam also confirmed that the main suspects were the two top military officers detained this week.
“They were released after having their statements recorded,” he said.
