Investigation Papers On Ex-army Chief Case To Be Completed By Monday - Azam Baki

PUTRAJAYA, Jan 15 (Bernama) -- Investigation papers in the alleged corruption case involving a former army chief are expected to be completed by Monday at the latest, said Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki.

Azam said he had instructed investigating officers to expedite the completion of the investigation papers in the high-profile case, which has drawn widespread public and media attention.

“I have instructed that the investigation papers be completed by Monday next week and then submitted to the deputy public prosecutor (for further action),” he told a special press conference here today.

According to Azam, once the investigation paper was submitted, the prosecutor would examine all evidence, including financial transactions, witness statements and intelligence findings linked to the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) procurement issue.

He also confirmed that the MACC would recommend that two individuals be charged in the case.

Azam said the investigation involving the former army chief had now entered its final phase after two weeks of intensive work, during which 23 individuals had been arrested and 22 investigation papers relating to corruption offences had been opened.

According to him, one investigation paper had also been opened under the anti-money laundering act and 30 witnesses had had their statements recorded so far.

He added that the case was being investigated under Section 17(a) and Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009 for the offences of accepting bribes and abusing power by public servants, as well as Section 4(1) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001.

Azam said that one of the key challenges in the investigation was tracing financial transactions that had only been partially reported by the complainant.

“In corruption cases, we must establish who gave the money. That is what we are working on. For that, the MACC had to obtain bank documents and seek help from Bank Negara and the banks involved,” he said.

-- BERNAMA