KUALA LUMPUR – It has been reported that some police personnel are living beyond their means, driving luxury cars and going overseas to play golf, said Bukit Aman Integrity and Standard Compliance Department director Datuk Zamri Yahya.
Some even take to social media to flaunt their wealth, showing off their pricey vehicles and homes, which raises questions on whether their salary as police is able to support such lavish lifestyles.
Zamri said his department is closely monitoring the matter, so as to curb misconduct and power abuse, and to maintain the force’s integrity.
“I was told that some members often play golf and bet on their games. A single golf outing at a standard golf course costs about RM200... so in a month, how much does that work up to?
“And when we check on their positions and income, their expenditure pattern is not consistent with the salary they earn.
“We have identified those involved, and they will be asked to give an explanation on... how they manage to live a luxurious life.
“If they can’t justify it, they will face action,” he told Bernama recently.
As civil servants and members of a uniformed body, he said, officers must avoid actions that could hurt police’s public image.
He said the department is also paying close attention to police functions.
Those organised at the federal police level are funded by government allocations, and as only a limited amount is allowed, additional funding is sometimes needed from “unofficial sources”, he said.
When seeking contributions from such sources, he said, cops are exposed to corrupt practices.
“For example, if they manage to secure sponsorship from entertainment outlets or nightclubs, the officers would be obligated to not take action against the owners should they commit offences in the future.” – Bernama, November 29, 2020
