Lawyer Mohd Haniff Khatri Abdullah today advised the police not to be too detailed in revealing to the public the amount of cash and valuables seized from various properties linked to former premier Najib Abdul Razak.
He said while he realises it is in public interest to provide updates of the investigation, it is also vital that the integrity of the chain of investigation be protected for use in court.
"This is to ensure the consistency of the evidence produced as what is highlighted in public will also be produced in court for any anticipated trial, " he said.
Haniff said there was no need to reveal in detail the actual value of what had been seized from the residences.
"Let the experts reveal the value of the seized goods in court, " he added.
"I would also like to advise newly appointed attorney-general Tommy Thomas to issue a directive to all enforcement agencies to this effect so as to not disrupt court proceedings," he said.
Haniff, who is also a criminal lawyer, added that detailed disclosures by the police could also result in a trial by media.
The lawyer also suggested that Najib, who has been vocal in responding to the reports of the value of the items seized, maintain his silence.
"While I understand the possible need to respond as the police have made all the revelations in public, the more Najib says, the more he is digging his own grave.
"He should just shut up and let the law takes its course when the case comes up in court, " he said.
Yesterday, Commercial Crime Investigation Department director Amar Singh at a specially held press conference itemised all the valuables seized from three properties linked to the former prime minister.
Najib, meanwhile, in an exclusive interview at the Malaysiakini office questioned the police evaluation and maintained that the valuables were gifts presented to him and his wife Rosmah Mansor. -Mkini
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