The MACC has confirmed that Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob is now a suspect in an ongoing corruption and money laundering case and not just a witness anymore.
MACC Chief Tan Sri Azam Baki said this came after they found about RM170 million in cash at a ‘safehouse’ during a raid, as reported by Berita Harian.
Ismail Sabri is required to declare his assets
As a result, Azam said one of the steps being taken against the former Prime Minister is requiring him to declare his assets under Section 36 of the MACC Act.
He also said that since a sum amount of cash was found and linked to him, MACC would need an explanation from him regarding the discovery.
“The discovery of RM170 million in cash at the safehouse confirms that the Bera MP is a suspect. In this case, I can say he’s a suspect because he’s been asked to provide a detailed declaration of his assets under Section 36 of the MACC Act.”
4 people were arrested and linked to the case
Earlier, MACC said they planned to call in 10 more witnesses for the asset declaration probe linked to the corruption and money laundering case involving the former prime minister.
This comes after four people, including Ismail Sabri’s former senior officer, were arrested, while the Bera MP himself was questioned by MACC last week.
MACC also revealed that hundreds of millions in cash and valuables were seized from three locations, including a ‘safehouse,’ as part of the case.
Azam also confirmed that Ismail Sabri would be called in again this Wednesday for more questioning.
MACC dismissed claims of political bias
When asked about the RM700 million in government funds that were allegedly misused, Azam said the investigation is still ongoing.
“He was already called in on February 11 and questioned for about four to five hours. The day before, he submitted his asset declaration,” he said.
Azam also denied claims that the investigation was ‘selective’ or politically driven.
“We do our investigations professionally and fairly. MACC doesn’t take action based on someone’s position or political ties,” he said.
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