Half of those compounded seeking more time, says Latheefa

About half of the 80 entities or individuals who received forfeiture notice from the MACC have sought more time to comply, said chief commissioner Latheefa Koya.

"(In some cases) they want to pay but can't afford the amount sought. Some claim that they were merely a conduit and not the end-user.

"If they are prepared to cooperate and tell us who was the recipient, we will go after that person," said Latheefa (photo) in Putrajaya.

Latheefa said this when asked about the status of MACC's suits against the 80 entities or individuals who allegedly received funds illicitly derived from 1MDB.

She said there was a group of respondents who had lodged police reports in relation to the suits which had to be investigated by the MACC.

"We have taken the necessary action. Give us some time to do investigations," she said.

The MACC is attempting to recover RM420 million through the 80 suits, which includes companies, individuals, political parties and politicians, among others.

Among those targeted was former CIMB Bank chairperson Nazir Razak, who allegedly received and disbursed RM25.7 million.

Nazir is the younger brother to former prime minister Najib Razak, who is currently on trial for allegedly embezzling money from 1MDB and SRC International Sdn Bhd.

Meanwhile, when asked about the status of MACC's investigations on reports lodged in relations to the PKR national elections last year, Latheefa declined to comment.

"I shall not comment on that," she said.

PKR's leadership elections were held between September and November last year.

The election saw several PKR members being questioned by the authorities.

The authorities had also visited the party's headquarters to probe complaints on membership irregularities. - Mkini