Cops record statement in alleged plot to topple govt

2026-03-05 - 04:33

Inspector-General of Police Khalid Ismail said the investigation into the alleged plot to topple the government may involve elements beyond Malaysia and requires a cautious approach. (Bernama pic) PUTRAJAYA: Police have recorded a statement from an individual allegedly linked to a plot to topple the government, Inspector-General of Police Khalid Ismail said today. Khalid said the person came forward voluntarily shortly after a police report was lodged. “We have obtained several names, and I am working to get statements from those related to the matter,” he told reporters after a home ministry event. “We have only taken one statement so far, but another three to four people will be called to give theirs.” He said the probe was being conducted comprehensively and carefully, as it might involve matters beyond Malaysia. When asked whether Naimah Khalid, the widow of former finance minister Daim Zainuddin, would be called, Khalid said the matter was not yet confirmed. Last week, Naimah denied any involvement in an attempt to destabilise the government, calling the allegations “false and preposterous”. She said the viral police report was filed by a “disgruntled” former employee of her proposed communications team in July 2025, who was terminated for allegedly poor performance and later made monetary demands. The report claimed that members of a prominent family had engaged a UK-based firm to pressure the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim with the help of international media. The allegations surfaced following news reports by Bloomberg claiming that MACC chief Azam Baki held 17.7 million shares in a financial services company and had not publicly declared his assets. Azam denied the claim and is suing Bloomberg for RM100 million in damages. In a separate report, Bloomberg alleged that a network of businessmen and MACC officers used raids and investigations to pressure executives into selling shares in targeted companies. MACC has denied the claim.