Gabungan Bertindak Malaysia (GBM) urges the government to initiate a thorough investigation into Inspector General of Police Hamid Bador’s claims that there were corrupt practices from the bottom to the top in the police force and that there was a cartel within the police force who intended to dominate the force and topple him.
GBM applauds the inspector general’s honesty when commenting on the issue of corruption and that the corruption within the police force was under control. We concur with him that while ambitions and career prospects are not in themselves bad, they should never be through illegal and unlawful means. We, however, urge the inspector general to reconsider his position that an internal investigation is sufficient.
This revelation from the highest-ranking police officer in Malaysia is shocking as it is revealing. It does not augur well for a law enforcement institution. Major reforms are therefore needed to restore the integrity of the police force. The challenge is to restore public trust and confidence in the police.
We therefore urge that an independent probe by another agency such as the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) be considered seriously. We also believe that a royal commission of inquiry should be established with its findings then made public.
The inspector general’s claims also give further weight to the proposal to set up an independent police complaints of misconduct commission (IPCMC). We urge the government to reconsider its decision to drop the proposed IPCMC in favour of an independent police conduct commission (IPCC). We believe the IPCMC should be instituted to prevent the propriety of the police force from being tarnished by a minority of irresponsible officers.
We believe these measures are essential to uphold the honour, dignity and the integrity of the police force and will enhance its capacity to carry out its duties and responsibilities in defending national security, maintaining public order and ensuring harmony and peace in our society.
Badlishah Sham Baharin is chair of Gabungan Bertindak Malaysia (GBM). This statement was issued on behalf of the GBM.
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