Over 400 files scrutinised in Sarawak CM's alleged corruption case - MACC

More than 20 individuals have been questioned and 400 files scrutinised in the corruption case allegedly involving Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud to date, said the Malaysian Anti- Corruption Commission (MACC). MACC Investigation Division Secretariat assistant commissioner Lim Bee Kean said the individuals were believed to be involved and cited in a Youtube video linked to the alleged case. "Actually, investigations had been ongoing since June 2011, even before the video exposure," she told a media conference at the MACC headquarters here today. The video entitled,Inside Malaysias Shadow State was allegedly a recording of a conversation between a personal investigator for a London-based non-governmental organisation, Global Witness and two of Taib's cousins. Lim said to expedite the investigation, a special team comprising 10 officers from the MACC, Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC) and other agencies had been set up, and that the investigation report would be submitted to the AGC for further action. She said once the investigation had been completed and a decision made by the public prosecutor, MACC's Operations Assessment Panel (OAP) would be acknowledged on the status of the case. "The OAP, an independent panel made up of individuals representing various professional backgrounds is tasked with ensuring transparency and impartiality in investigations carried out by the MACC, she said. Lim said the MACC was also monitored by the Special Committee on Corruption, which comprised government and opposition state assemblymen and members of parliament. She said the MACC conducted all the cases without fear or favour and in this regard, had received full cooperation from the individuals concerned including Taib. "As in other cases prior to this one, the MACC will not divulge the investigation details, in accordance with Section 29(4) of the MACC Act 2009. "As this case involves numerous documents and parties, the investigation will probably take time for the collection of evidence, statements and in light of new developments," she said.