MACC tracking down witnesses for probe into corruption case in Melaka

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is still looking for key witnesses to assist investigations into a corruption case related to collection of bribes from operators of illegal gambling and massage centres in Melaka.

MACC chief commissioner Datuk Dzulkifli Ahmad said this after the agency failed to trace several key witnesses believed to have left the country.

"Some of them have fled the country, while the rest are still in hiding.

"We are still tracking them down to complete our investigation," he said after launching 'Sahabat SPRM' programme in a shopping mall here today.

Commenting on Sarawak Report allegations linking several top Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) officials with the main suspects, he said MACC would only take action including calling the Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar, after further investigation.

"Let us investigate first, we will call him if necessary.

"The MACC cannot use claims made in an article on the internet as evidence. We can only act based on our investigation," he said.

As of May 25 this year, a total of 13 people, including nine police personnel in Melaka have been detained to assist investigations into the case.

On the 'Sahabat SPRM' programme, he said the agency would use 2,200 7-Eleven convenience store premises across the country to spread anti-corruption messages.

"We hope through this campaign, it would encourage people to report on corruption as flyers are available at the 7-Eleven outlets to assist them," he said.

-- BERNAMA