Azam: Edited Sabah scandal videos can't be used for probe, inadmissible

Summary

• MACC chief Azam Baki says the Sabah scandal videos are not usable for investigations or in court because they are edited.

• The whistleblower behind the videos has yet to furnish the MACC with any evidence.

The MACC probe on the Sabah corruption scandal is still underway with the graft buster recently taking statements from five individuals including a politician.

Amid this, MACC chief Azam Baki appeared to double down on his claim that there was too little evidence in the case.

In what appeared to be a rebuttal to critics, Azam said the video evidence available thus far - as published by Malaysiakini - is not usable.

"We had sent the video to MACC's forensics division.

"Their report shows that eight videos in the portal (Malaysiakini) are not usable as it has been edited, and can't be used for investigations or in court because it is not credible," he was quoted as saying by Bernama.

He also reiterated that the whistleblower had not furnished the MACC with any evidence thus far.

A whistleblower had released the videos to Malaysiakini, which implicated multiple Sabah assemblypersons including allegedly taking bribes from him.

The businessperson had initially sought whistleblower protection in exchange for evidence but was denied due to his role as the alleged bribe giver.

On Feb 5, the whistleblower’s lawyer, Shafee Abdullah, revealed that his client still has more than half a dozen videos in his possession and additional screenshots of WhatsApp messages.

Previously, Azam’s predecessor, Latheefa Koya, said the videos published by Malaysiakini showed “clear evidence” of corruption and completely satisfied the definition of “gratification” under Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009.

Azam further indicated he had no intention of calling in Malaysiakini over the videos, saying he respected its freedom to report.

Netizens 'laugh' at Azam over 'lack of evidence' claim - Warisan Women

Sabah scandal: Shafie asks why no arrests, recalls 'orange' attire

Ramkarpal: Azam's statement absurd, videos show prima facie case