Take action, don't just issue statement, Hishammuddin tells DoJ

Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein today said the US Department of Justice should take action and not simply issue statements regarding the 1Malaysia Development Fund (1MDB).

He said the person allegedly implicated in the investigation can only clear his or her name once action has been taken by the department.

"If they have strong evidence, then charge the person. Don't just issue statements without taking action, " he said at a press conference here today.

"Only after they are charged, the person would have space to clear their names. Otherwise, by just issuing statements and not taking action, the credibility of the department would be at stake," he added.

On Thursday, the DoJ said it had moved to seize US$540 million (RM2.3 billion) of assets allegedly embezzled from 1MDB.

The assets include art works, jewellery and movie rights.

Hishammuddin who is also the Defense Minister said DoJ's latest statement is nothing new.

"Before this also they have issued statements. I want to tell them, if you have proof, charge and take action. Only then justice will prevail.

Hishammuddin also said that certain quarters are trying to take advantage of the recent statement by the DoJ.