The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission detained a former army chief and four others in an investigation into alleged bribery linked to military procurement. The MACC said it will seek a court order to remand the former chief and his two wives and has already detained additional suspects for questioning. Authorities froze six bank accounts and seized 2.4 million ringgit after raids on several firms. The probe is ongoing and some details remain unverified.
Malaysia Detains Ex-Army Chief and Four Others in Military Procurement Bribery Probe
FILE PHOTO: The logo of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission is seen at its headquarters in Putrajaya, outside Kuala Lumpur December 9, 2009. REUTERS/Bazuki Muhammad/File Photo
KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysian anti-graft authorities detained a former army chief and four other individuals on Wednesday as part of an investigation into alleged bribery tied to military procurement contracts, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) said.
Investigation and Detentions
The MACC said it will apply on Thursday for a court order to remand the former army chief and his two wives to assist with the inquiry. The commission did not publicly name all those detained but said the individuals had earlier given statements at MACC headquarters. It added that two other people were already being held for further questioning.
Reported Statement and Leave
State news agency Bernama reported that former army chief Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan recorded a statement at MACC headquarters in connection with the probe; Reuters was unable to independently verify that report. Muhammad Hafizuddeain was placed on leave in late December after the MACC raided several firms alleged to be involved in the scheme and took further investigative steps.
Seizures and Financial Actions
The MACC froze six bank accounts linked to a suspect and family members and seized 2.4 million ringgit (about $591,716) in cash tied to the investigation, Bernama reported. MACC Chief Commissioner Azam Baki told Bernama the cash was seized when a person connected to the case was intercepted attempting to transfer the funds to another location.
Note: The probe remains ongoing and authorities are continuing interviews and forensic financial checks.
($1 = 4.0560 ringgit)
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