Police probe only if audit on 1MDB reveals discrepancies - IGP

Police will only begin investigations if the audit on 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) by the National Audit Department uncovers any discrepancies, said Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar.

He said police would await Auditor-General Tan Sri Ambrin Buang's report on this matter.

"In the event that the inquiry uncovers any discrepancies, the police will commence investigations henceforth," he said in a statement today.

Speaking in Putrajaya earlier today, Ambrin disclosed that the department had begun an audit of 1MDB soon after being instructed to do so by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak last week.

Khalid also clarified media reports quoting him as suggesting that Najib would be questioned regarding this issue.

"What I actually meant was that the police will speak to all whom we believe can help shed light on the case. Be that as it may, the focus would be on the decision makers in the company," the IGP said.

Khalid reiterated that these actions would only commence if the Auditor-General's report unveiled discrepancies and indications of wrongdoing in the government-owned strategic development company.

"Otherwise, investigations will not ensue," he said.

The country's top police officer cautioned all parties against lodging reports pertaining to 1MDB without any basis.

"Police will take action against those who deliberately impose on our time and resources unnecessarily. Plase allow due process to take its course," he said.

It was reported that the Attorney-General had formed a special task force to investigate police reports lodged over 1MDB issues concerning alleged mismanagement of funds.

Khalid said the task force would be headed by the Attorney-General's Chambers to allow pooling of resources in facilitating investigations.

This, he said, would be more effective that carrying out separate investigations.

In addition to the police Commercial Crimes Division and the A-G's Chambers, Khalid said the task force also included the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission.