MACC detains 1 Datuk Seri, 2 Datuks, RM13 million in bank accounts frozen

Three government officials, one of them holding 'Datuk Seri' title and the other two 'Datuk' title were detained by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) today for allegedly accepting bribes, misuse of power and being involved in money laundering.

MACC Investigations director Datuk Azam Baki said the three individuals were detained between 12 noon to 2pm today stimultaneously in Kuala Lumpur, Malacca and Kelantan.

He said the three detained were attached to a government department, a local authority and a government-linked company.

"Following their arrest, the three's bank accounts containing RM13 million were frozen, including savings accounts and unit trusts amounting between RM1 million and RM6 million.

"Also seized were several condominiums including penthouse, bungalow and luxury cars among which are a Maserati, BMW and Audi which are believed to have been bought with bribed money and poceeds of money-laundering," he said in a statement.

In the operation, MACC also found about RM400,000 in cash, foreign currency and luxury wristwatches.

The three individuals, who are in their 50s are expected to be remanded tomorrow.

The case is being investigated under Section 17(a) and 23 of the MACC Act 2009 and Section 4(1) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001.

Under the MACC Act 2009, those convicted can be sentenced to 20 years in prison; fined RM10,000 or five times the bribe, whichever is higher. For an offence under the Anti-Money Laundering Act, offenders are liable to imprisonment not exceeding 15 years and a fine of not less than five times the sum or value of the proceeds of the unlawful activity, or RM5 million, whichever is higher.