Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is leaving the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to carry out its probe into alleged corruption involving four former aides of ailing ex-prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
He said he was confident that the commission would conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations.
“We are confident that MACC will carry out all legal procedures and complete its investigation,” he told reporters after officiating Sabah Umno’s 34th anniversary celebration here on Sunday (Feb 23).
Ahmad Zahid, who is also Deputy Prime Minister, emphasised the importance of maintaining fairness throughout the investigation.
“We hope they will carry out the probe fairly and with credibility. It has always been a benchmark, especially for MACC, to uphold its integrity,” he added.
He also said he had yet to visit Ismail Sabri, who was hospitalised after he fainted at home on Saturday (Feb 22).
He said he would visit the Umno vice president when he returns to Kuala Lumpur.
“I found out yesterday (Saturday) but I did not have the opportunity to visit him because of my schedule. Today, I am in Tawau and tomorrow I will be in Kota Kinabalu,” he added.
Ismail Sabri’s officers probed for alleged graft, money laundering
The four former officers of former prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, who were recently arrested by graftbusters, are being investigated for alleged corruption and money laundering.
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission believes these allegations involve millions of ringgit in funds.
MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki confirmed this to the New Straits Times today.
He added that the four were arrested over allegations pertaining to corruption and money laundering.
“I can say that it involves quite a hefty amount. To the tune of millions,” he said.
Azam added that the investigation is being led by the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Division.
“Investigations have been opened under Section 16(a) of the MACC Act (for soliciting, accepting, or agreeing to accept a bribe),” he said.
Those found guilty could face imprisonment for up to 20 years and a fine of either five times the amount of gratification involved or RM10,000, whichever is higher.
Earlier today, it was reported that four people had been arrested by the MACC.
An MACC source confirmed the arrests, stating that a remand order had been obtained against them at the magistrate’s court on Friday.
Magistrate Irza Zulaikha issued a five-day remand order for three of the four people, starting Friday.
The fourth person was remanded for three days and released today.
The Coverage Malaysia
