Not true that we “surrounded” anyone’s house, MACC refutes Rafizi’s podcast claim

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 8 — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has rejected allegations that it was used to investigate candidates contesting in the PKR elections last May, following claims made by former economy minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli in a recent podcast.

In a statement yesterday, MACC described the allegation as unfounded, stressing that all investigations are conducted strictly based on complaints or credible information received. The commission said every report with merit is first verified and then investigated in accordance with established legal procedures.

“The claim that MACC officers ‘surrounded’ a particular individual’s house is inaccurate. In the case referred to, officers were at the residence to meet the individual and to carry out a search to obtain evidence. This is a standard investigation method, which may include an element of surprise to prevent the disposal of evidence. After confirming the individual was not at home, the officers left,” the statement said.

MACC added that the following day, the individual voluntarily presented himself at the commission’s office, where his statement was recorded before he was released without detention.

The commission stressed that all actions taken were fully in line with investigative requirements and procedures, and advised any dissatisfied party to lodge a formal complaint through official channels such as the police or the MACC Complaints Committee. It further urged the public not to make unfounded accusations on social media without evidence, as such claims could undermine public confidence in enforcement institutions. — Bernama