MACC To Question Ismail Sabri Again In Corruption Probe - Azam Baki

PUTRAJAYA, March 3 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is set to question former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob again this Wednesday as a suspect in an ongoing corruption and money laundering investigation.

"I can confirm that he (Ismail Sabri) is a suspect in this case. First, he was issued a notice under Section 36(1) of the MACC Act 2009 to declare his assets.

"Second, when the money was discovered and linked to him, we need his explanation," said MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki at a press conference today.

Yesterday, the MACC stated that Ismail Sabri is under investigation for corruption and money laundering, with the probe focusing on the expenditure and management of funds for promotional and publicity purposes during his tenure.

MACC has reportedly seized approximately RM170 million in various foreign currencies, including the Thai Baht, Riyal, Pound Sterling, Won, Euro, Swiss Franc, and Yuan. Additionally, 16 kg of pure gold bullion, valued at around RM7 million, was also confiscated.

Azam said the commission has recorded statements from 31 individuals and frozen 13 bank accounts with approximately RM2 million, all of which are legitimate and active.

"We have not frozen Ismail Sabri’s accounts, and the Yayasan Keluarga Malaysia account is also not affected," he said, adding that more witnesses would be called as part of the investigation under the MACC Act 2009 and the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing, and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001. 

"The investigation is ongoing based on new information we have received. At MACC, it is standard practice to conduct thorough investigations.

"Our focus extends beyond the project itself to anyone who may have benefited, especially given the key elements of corruption and abuse of power in this case," he said.

Azam disclosed that the seized cash and gold bullion were discovered inside three safes in a condominium, which is believed to have been used as a 'safe house'.

He added that the unit was leased from an individual and may have been managed by one of the suspects.

-- BERNAMA