KUALA LUMPUR – The three Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) officers detained over alleged misappropriation of monies classified as evidence should be investigated by police, according to Fahmi Fadzil (Lembah Pantai-PH).
The RM50.4 million was seized from Malaysia External Intelligence Organisation (MEIO) chief Datuk Hasanah Abdul Hamid by the MACC.
It is also alleged that the misappropriated funds were replaced with counterfeit banknotes.
“This is surprising because the detention of MACC officers was done by MACC itself,” Fahmi said during a parliamentary press conference today.
The PKR lawmaker said there are five Penal Code offences that may have been violated, which should prompt a response from police.
These include Section 204 for destroying evidence, Section 379 for stealing, and Sections 489A, 489B and 489C concerning possession of forged currencies and using them as legitimate monies.
“There are at least five offences that should be investigated by police, but there have been no police reports so far.
“I hope police will not wait until a report has been filed, and they should conduct their own investigations,” Fahmi added.
He further advised the MACC chief commissioner to recuse himself to ensure the integrity of the investigation process.
Meanwhile, Hassan Abdul Karim (Pasir Gudang-PH), who is also a member of the Corruption Select Committee, proposed the MACC be placed under the supervision of Parliament as opposed to the Prime Minister’s Office.
“From a legal perspective, this is an omission by the MACC because the monies were kept by (the commission) as evidence.
“Where evidence is tampered with amounts to a crime, and police must be informed,” Hassan said.
MEIO chief Hasanah had stood trial for criminal breach of trust involving RM50.4 million, but was granted a dismissal not amounting to an acquittal April this year.
During investigations into her case, the MACC had seized cash and other belongings from her. – The Vibes, September 21, 2021
