Investigators in REE probe also identifying weaknesses in systems, says Azam


PUTRAJAYA: Graft investigators probing the rare earth elements (REE) mining case in Kedah are identifying weaknesses in systems and procedures that could have led to abuse, says Tan Sri Azam Baki.

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner, when asked for updates on the case, said the investigation does not only revolve around alleged corruption but also issues such as compliance.

ALSO READ: Kedah exco members have been called to provide statements to MACC, says Sanusi (https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2023/07/26/kedah-exco-members-have-been-called-to-provide-statements-to-macc-says-sanusi)

“It is also our responsibility to look into the (administrative) system and procedures to look for loopholes and weaknesses.

“We still have many more witnesses who need to be called to help us in the probe,” he said after launching the body-worn camera initiative for MACC enforcement officers here on Monday (July 31).

ALSO READ: Senior Kedah govt officer remanded to assist in REE mining probe (https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2023/07/24/senior-kedah-govt-officer-remanded-to-assist-in-ree-mining-probe)

Azam said the number of those arrested in connection with the REE investigation stood at four to date.

An aide to caretaker mentri besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor and the chief executive officer of Mentri Besar Kedah Incorporated were among those who had been remanded.

ALSO READ: MBI head honcho held over RM13mil REE graft probe (https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2023/07/20/mbi-head-honcho-held-over-rm13mil-ree-graft-probe)

The MACC has opened investigations into allegations of power abuse over the issue of REE mining, believed to have been conducted illegally.

The anti-graft body also said it would call up Muhammad Sanusi.

On July 20, Azam had said that his officers were tracking down several other witnesses, including China nationals who had allegedly invested in the REE mining project in Sik, Kedah.

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Graft , MACC , Azam Baki , Kedah , Abuse of Power , REE , Probe

   

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