Kuala Lumpur: UMNO has emphasised that the party is not connected to the ongoing investigation into former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob following the discovery of a large amount of cash and gold bars at several premises last week.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, UMNO secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki stated that the party takes seriously any attempts to link it to the case, stressing that the investigation must be conducted transparently, independently, and fairly without interference. He asserted that UMNO is not connected to the discovery and maintained that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) should be allowed to conduct its investigation without any form of interference.

Dr Asyraf further added that UMNO would not hesitate to pursue legal action against any party that attempts to associate the party with the case or create a negative perception of UMNO. The statement underscores the party’s commitment to distancing itself from the ongoing probe.

Previously, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki revealed that Ismail Sabri is a suspect in a corruption and money laundering investigation. This follows the discovery of approximately RM170 million in cash during a raid by the agency. The investigation is aimed at scrutinizing expenditure and fund acquisition for promotional and publicity purposes during Ismail Sabri’s tenure as prime minister.

So far, the MACC has recorded statements from 31 individuals and frozen 13 bank accounts worth approximately RM2 million, all of which are confirmed to be legitimate and active. The case continues to draw significant attention as the investigation unfolds.