Assets seized during investigations into criminal cases involving illegal financial schemes using gold can only be dealt with through a court order.

Bank Negara Malaysia said in a statement released in Kuala Lumpur today that investors may file a third party claim with the court for return of their money or gold, but they would only be notified when the court proceedings were over.

The raids to find and seize the assets were to prevent the suspected companies from concealing evidence, other than preventing them from being lost as it would have a negative impact on investors.

The statement said assets and gold seized during the raids would be carefully documented, accounted for and kept in a safe place.

Investigation still ongoing

It was issued jointly with the police, Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry and Companies Commission of Malaysia in response to public queries on raids against companies suspected of conducting illegal financial activities using gold.

The statement said the investigation was still ongoing and it depended on the complexity and seriousness of the cases.

"The complexity level has increased due to the international dimension of such cases.

"This investigation remains a top priority and all resources have been mobilised by the relevant law enforcement agencies to expedite the investigation."

The public is advised to be wary of investment schemes that promise high returns with low risk and refer to the relevant agencies when dealing with companies or individuals offering unlicensed financial services, the statement added.

- Bernama