In a possible case of mistaken identity, a Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission officer has been arrested by the Pahang police for allegedly escaping from a drug rehabilitation centre (Pusat Serenti) eight years ago.

Malaysiakini learnt that the officer, who joined the MACC as an investigating officer in 2007, is being remanded by police after being detained at a roadblock in Bentong earlier this week.

Apparently, the police suspected the MACC officer of having escaped from the rehabilitation centre in Pahang in 2003.

This resulted in him being remanded to assist in investigations.

No vetting by MACC?

If the allegation against the officer is found to be true, people will start wondering how the MACC vetted its staff before employing them.

However, it is learnt that the case could likely be one of mistaken identity.

The officer is said to be considering initiating taking legal action against the police and government for wrongful detention.

However, it is learnt the narcotics division of the police force in Bentong is playing hardball by threatening the officer that he could be detained for a longer period, and that a recommendation would be sent to his employer that he be sacked.

This is despite the officer's claim that his detention is a case of mistaken identity.

The MACC officer is still being detained and his fate as at this evening remains unknown.

MACC deputy chief commissioner Sukri Abdull and the commission's investigations director Mustafar Ali could not be reached for comment on this matter.