JOHOR BAHRU – The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has arrested two more police officers in connection with a major bribery case involving the protection of illegal gambling activities in Johor. The scandal is said to involve RM635,000 (approximately S$182,000) in bribes.
The two officers, both in their 30s, were detained at around 9pm after they arrived at the Johor MACC office to give their statements. They were subsequently brought before the Johor Bahru Magistrates’ Court yesterday morning, where Magistrate Chai Eng Heng approved a remand order until 5 August to allow for further investigations.
These arrests follow the earlier detention of two other police officers believed to be involved in the same case. This brings the total number of officers arrested so far to four, as the MACC intensifies its crackdown on corruption within the police force.
According to Johor MACC deputy operations director Hairul Ilham, the investigation is being carried out under Section 16(a)(B) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009, which pertains to soliciting or receiving gratification as an inducement or reward.
Officers Allegedly Took Bribes to Shield Gambling Syndicates
Preliminary findings suggest that the officers may have received bribes from gambling operators in exchange for protection from enforcement. This allegedly allowed the illicit operations to continue undisturbed in the state, possibly for an extended period of time.
Investigators are now working to trace the money trail and determine whether more officers or individuals were involved in the syndicate. The MACC is also scrutinising the operations of certain gambling dens believed to have paid for protection.
Public Confidence in Law Enforcement at Risk
This latest development has added to growing concerns about corruption within law enforcement ranks. Members of the public have taken to social media to express frustration and disappointment, calling for full transparency and accountability in the investigations.
The Johor MACC has vowed to pursue the case thoroughly and bring all guilty parties to justice, regardless of rank or background.
As investigations unfold, more arrests may follow. The MACC has urged anyone with information to come forward and assist with the ongoing probe.
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