MACC to tighten handling of suspects and visitors
(The Star) – PUTRAJAYA: Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) officers must now resolve all matters related to guests, suspects, witnesses and complainants on the ground floor of its premises with immediate effect.
MACC deputy chief commissioner (management and professionalism) Datuk Zakaria Jaafar said that in leased premises, officers had been directed to monitor at all times anyone with official business with the anti-graft body.
He said this followed a long-time directive from previous director-generals that meeting of visitors and guests was limited to visitors’ and waiting rooms.
“Under the new directive, maximum security steps must be taken for everyone who has business with MACC, especially the accused, suspects, witnesses and complainants,” he told reporters at MACC headquarters here yesterday.
“All business must be resolved or performed under the supervision of an MACC officer at all times. Guests cannot be left alone.
“It is not merely the safety of the visitors but also that of the officers and premises,” he said.
Zakaria said his division, which is in charge of discipline, would issue warning letters, suspend or terminate the employment of any officer found to have violated the orders.
“I have also asked the excellence and professionalism division to take strict action against any officer who violates these orders so that discipline in MACC remains at the highest level,” he said, stressing that action would only be taken against officers performing “non-criminal” acts.
“Criminal violations will be referred to the relevant authorities such as the police,” Zakaria said, adding that procedures related to the interrogation and handling of witnesses and suspects were contained in the MACC Chief Commissioner’s Standing Orders.
Zakaria also told MACC directors in charge of safety to inspect all its premises to ensure that its security measures had been adhered to.
In Petaling Jaya, MCA publicity bureau deputy chairman Loh Seng Kok said measures must be taken to strengthen and improve the design and construction of MACC buildings.
