MACC to quiz Sanusi over rare earth scandal

The MACC will be questioning caretaker Kedah menteri besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor as part of their probe into a rare earth elements (REE) mining project in the state.

MACC chief Azam Baki (above) said they have questioned 12 people thus far.

"More people will be called in for questioning including Sanusi… it is just a matter of when they will be called for questioning," he was quoted as saying by the New Straits Times.

Meanwhile, Azam said the graft busters were also tracking down China nationals said to be involved in the mining project.

"The China nationals were claimed to have invested in the REE mining and the investigating officers are identifying their whereabouts to assist our probe.

"We are not sure if they are in Malaysia or in China," he said.

On Tuesday, the MACC was reported to be investigating illegal REE mining activities in Bukit Enggang, Sik, following complaints by Kedah Umno, local residents and groups critical of Sanusi.

On the same day, the MACC arrested a senior official at Menteri Besar Kedah Incorporated (MBI Kedah) as well as a company director as part of the probe.

They were being investigated on allegations of abuse of power and bribery involving over RM13 million.

Earlier over the weekend, Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail alleged that Sanusi was fined RM500,000 last year over REE theft in Kampung Chong, Sik.

In response, Sanusi firmly denied the claim, adding neither he nor Menteri Besar Incorporated (MBI) was issued the fine, but rather a third party.

Saifuddin also alleged that there were China nationals - who entered the country using social visas - involved in the project.

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