A reminder for celebrities, businessmen: Don't let MACC come calling - Azam

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has asked all celebrities and businessmen involved in the Macau Scam money laundering activities to come forward to assist in the investigation.

MACC Chief Commissioner, Datuk Seri Azam Baki said the action is to prevent the MACC from detaining those involved in the near future.

"It does not matter if you are a celebrity or anyone or any party that has received (syndicate funds) from individuals detained by the MACC, they are asked to come forward before we call.

"The MACC has a list of names of individuals including celebrities and businessmen, so we ask to come forward and we will treat you well if you cooperate. Do not wait for us to come calling," he said in a live interview through the 'MACC 360' slot on MACCfm.

Meanwhile, when asked about whether the individuals knew about the syndicate's involvement, Azam said it was impossible for them not to know because the funds provided were in cash.

"This money laundering crime involves offences such as cheating, bribery or robbing a bank, where the money needs to be laundered.

"Those who received the money cannot be ignorant or say they do not know.

"Because when we investigate, we will investigate up to where the money is (handed over). Establishing a business is one of the branches for this money to be laundered," he explained.

Meanwhile, Azam confirmed that 20 individuals, including eight from the police force, were arrested in a special operation in a money laundering case involving a Macau Scam fraud syndicate.

He said MACC also confiscated 730 bank accounts containing RM80 million, RM5 million cash and 23 luxury vehicles believed to be the result of the activity.

"Of the 20 suspects, one is a Chinese national, 11 locals and eight enforcement officers from a government agency.

"All these seizures are believed to be the result of illegal activities by deceiving the public," he added.

Earlier, three individuals believed to be businessmen were remanded for three days starting today, to assist in the investigation into money laundering cases involving artistes and celebrities in the country.