Transfer of Special Branch’s No. 2 worrying, ex-IGP says

(Malay Mail Online) – The recent transfer of Special Branch deputy director Datuk Abdul Hamid Bador is a cause for worry, especially following the replacement of his superior less than a month prior, former Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Rahim Noor said.

“The Number One is no more there, and now the Number Two is being transferred,” he was quoted telling English daily The Star.

“Any right thinking person would know that for continuity, it would be better not to change the top two (simultaneously),” he added.

Abdul Hamid’s superior, Special Branch director Datuk Akhil Bulat was replaced by Datuk Seri Mohamad Fuzi Harun in July, a few weeks ahead of the expiry of his contract.

Abdul Hamid had held a press conference last Friday following his transfer to the Prime Minister’s Department, alleging that there were parties who were uneasy with his position to further press for investigation into the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) issue.

Rahim, who served as Special Branch director himself in the 1980s, stressed that he knew Abdul Hamid to be “intelligent and very dedicated” and praised him for going public over the transfer.

“The fact that he made the statement while he is still in government service shows his true colours. He is that sort of person,” Rahim was quoted saying.

“We need to know who is right and who is in the wrong,” Rahim added, commenting on 1MDB.

Abdul Hamid has reportedly said that he will reveal the mastermind behind moves to suppress further exposure of the controversy surrounding the debt-laden state-owned fund.