KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian authorities have arrested a former army chief, Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan, along with his two wives, in connection with a corruption investigation into a military procurement project. The arrests were part of a broader probe that included five detentions on Wednesday, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) said.
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The MACC did not immediately release the names of all those detained, but local media confirmed Hafizuddeain’s involvement. Authorities have also raided several companies since late last year as part of the investigation and seized six bank accounts belonging to the suspect and his family members.
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While details of the alleged corruption have not been publicly disclosed, the probe reportedly centers on payments made to a senior army officer’s account. MACC Chief Commissioner Azam Baki told local media that the agency is committed to conducting the investigation with full transparency and professionalism.
In addition to the arrests, the MACC foiled an attempt to move 2.4 million ringgit (around $591,000) in cash linked to the case. The seizure occurred when an individual connected to the investigation was caught attempting to transfer the money to another location, according to the national news agency Bernama.
Hafizuddeain had been placed on leave in late December pending inquiries into his conduct, officials said. The anti-graft probe comes amid heightened scrutiny of military procurement practices in Malaysia, raising questions about accountability in defense contracts.
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Investigators are continuing to gather evidence and have not yet indicated whether additional arrests are expected. The case is being closely watched in Malaysia, given Hafizuddeain’s prominent position and the involvement of family members.