Ismail Sabri Case: UMNO Says Not Linked To MACC Probe

KUALA LUMPUR, March 6 (Bernama) -- UMNO has emphasised that the party is not connected to the ongoing investigation into former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob following the discovery of a large amount of cash and gold bars at several premises last week.

UMNO secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said the party takes seriously any attempts to link it to the case, stressing that the investigation must be conducted transparently, independently and fairly without interference.

 “UMNO has no connection to the discovery and maintains that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) should be given the space to conduct its investigation transparently, independently and fairly without any interference,” he said in a statement today.

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He added that UMNO would not hesitate to take legal action against any party that deliberately attempts to associate the party with the case or create a negative perception of UMNO.

Previously, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said Ismail Sabri is a suspect in a corruption and money laundering investigation after approximately RM170 million in cash was found in a safe house during a raid by the agency.

The investigation is focused on the expenditure and acquisition of funds for promotional and publicity purposes during his tenure as prime minister.

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So far, the MACC has recorded statements from 31 individuals and frozen 13 bank accounts worth approximately RM2 million, all of which are confirmed to be legitimate and active.

-- BERNAMA