Cops launch probe over claims of MACC officer receiving RM350,000

 Two investigation papers have been opened, one over the alleged receipt of money and another over possible defamation and misuse of network services.

Bukit Aman CID chief M Kumar said police would seek an order to investigate the allegations further, including recording witness statements.

PETALING JAYA:

Police have launched two separate investigations into allegations that a senior Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) officer received RM350,000 from an individual in 2017.

Bukit Aman criminal investigation department director M Kumar said in a statement that police had received reports over the allegation, which had been circulating on several social media platforms in recent days.

He said the first investigation was opened under Section 165 of the Penal Code, which concerns public servants receiving valuable items without consideration from people connected to their official duties.

The second investigation is being conducted under Section 500 of the Penal Code for defamation and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for improper use of network facilities or services, he said.

“An application for an order to investigate under Section 108(2) of the Criminal Procedure Code will be submitted to the public prosecutor to allow further investigation, including recording witness statements and obtaining confirmation of the earlier investigation status by MACC,” Kumar said.

He also urged the public to refrain from speculating about the case while investigations are ongoing and to use social media responsibly.

The MACC had said that the allegations were investigated in 2018 and the case was closed after no wrongdoing was proven.

However, following the renewed circulation of the allegations, MACC chief commissioner Ab Halim Aman ordered a special team to conduct further investigations. - FMT