With Chinese New Year almost here, it’s no surprise that some have already started collecting ang paus. But, the discovery of ang paus with RM6289 in a policeman’s possession at the Setapak station has raised a red flag.
On 6th February, the Bukit Aman Integrity and Standards Compliance Department (JIPS) conducted a surprise inspection at the station, leading to the ang paus with RM6289 in cash being found in a policeman’s possession. The discovery has since sparked an internal investigation on the source of said cash.
JIPS director Datuk Seri Azri Ahmad confirmed the random spot check yesterday, adding that they were currently investigating the issue. “When we find money, we have to ask further if it is indeed their money,” the JIPS director explained. Reportedly, they are looking into whether he was given the ang paus, who gave them to him and if there was misconduct involved.
The money was discovered in a sling bag in the policeman’s locker, totaling RM4239 in cash. The other RM2050 was found in the policeman’s small bag attached to his hip. The policeman reportedly claimed the money had been given to him by friends who run motorcycle shops, sell cars and auto parts.
Datuk Seri Azri told New Straits Times that “by right, he (the policeman) cannot be in possession of ang paus“. According to the JIPS director, standard operating procedures dictated officers were allowed to bring RM100 for external operations, and were required to declare if they were bringing more. “But in this case, the money was found in his locker,” Datuk Seri Azri said.
Said spot check is allegedly routine for JIPS officers as they focus on strengthening the integrity of the force. Reportedly, they have conducted over 500,000 inspections last year. We applaud their dedication and sincerely hope their ongoing investigation will be as thorough as necessary.
Sources: China Press, New Straits Times
