The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission is investigating a prominent corporate figure on suspicion of being involved in money laundering linked to the ownership of Sapura Energy Bhd (SEB) shares worth over RM500 million.
A MACC source said the anti-graft agency is also investigating alleged elements of corruption involving several investments after Sapura Kencana Petroleum Bhd and Sapuracrest Petroleum Bhd were merged to form SEB.
The source said MACC officers raided several locations, including Sapura@Mines in Seri Kembangan, Menara Permata Sapura in Kuala Lumpur, and several residences in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur.
He said the investigations are being held under the MACC Act 2009, with the agency’s focus including alleged abuse of power involving remuneration, namely salaries, bonuses and shares.
MACC is also investigating SEB’s branding fees and private placements from 2012 to 2021.
“The investigation is also looking into alleged criminal breach of trust, misappropriation of funds and fraud, offences under the Penal Code.],” the source said.
“The (corporate) figure was called to give a statement at the MACC headquarters on May 5 and 6 to assist in the investigations. No arrests have been made.”
The source said 83 bank accounts, with a value of about RM158.26 million, owned by five people and 15 companies have been frozen.
In March, it was reported that MACC opened two investigation papers following information on bribes and misappropriation involving SEB.
A source said this was based on an initial probe opened at the end of 2023, also involving claims made related to the company.
MACC officers had also visited SEB’s office at Menara PNB in Kuala Lumpur in its investigation. The company had said it was fully cooperating with MACC and will provide the necessary information to support its inquiries.
