Kuala Lumpur:The High Court has ordered two current and one former officer from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to present their defence in a gang robbery case involving a China businessman. This ruling comes after the prosecution's appeal was accepted, overturning a previous Sessions Court decision to acquit the three men.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, The accused, Muhamad Haffiz Mohd Radzi, Mohd Fahmee Mohamad Nor, and former officer Azwan Asli, were initially acquitted by the Sessions Court on the basis that the prosecution did not adequately prove the elements of robbery. However, the High Court found that the element of fear was indeed present, warranting further trial proceedings.

The charges against the trio stem from an incident on December 10, 2021, when they allegedly robbed businessman Kun Gao at a condominium on Jalan Ampang. The stolen items included RM952,690, 1,225 Yuan, a silver luggage bag, and a black Louis Vuitton bag. The charge was framed under Section 395 of the Penal Code, which carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison and whipping if convicted.

During the incident, Mohd Fahmee and Azwan identified themselves as MACC officers and conducted a search under the pretense of a money laundering investigation. They allegedly coerced Gao into surrendering his passport and other personal belongings. Muhamad Haffiz was accused of intimidating the victim by showing handcuffs, preventing him from intervening as they seized the valuables.

The High Court's decision sends the case back to the Sessions Court for the defence stage, with bail maintained for all three respondents. The next mention is scheduled for October 29.