Albert Tei's Legal Team Denies MACC's Claims of 'Key Evidence'
PETALING JAYA: Albert Tei's legal team has vehemently refuted the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission's (MACC) assertion that they possess 'key evidence' in the ongoing probe against the controversial businessman. In a statement, Tei's lawyer, Mahajoth Singh, characterized the MACC's claim as 'false and outrageous', accusing them of attempting to mislead the public regarding his role as legal counsel.
Singh emphasized that the documents listed in the notice issued to him yesterday evening are protected by legal privilege and cannot be disclosed. He revealed that one notice demanded his presence for questioning today, while another requested the surrender of Tei's mobile phone. However, he clarified that Tei's phone is not in his possession, contrary to the MACC's 'baseless claim or belief'.
Mahajoth added that he is bound by solicitor-client privilege and cannot lawfully disclose privileged communications or materials. He expressed astonishment at the MACC's apparent inability or unwillingness to comprehend this fundamental legal safeguard. Despite the potential consequences, Singh vowed, 'I will not be intimidated or compelled to violate my sacred duties as counsel to Tei'.
The legal developments come as Tei and Shamsul Iskandar Akin, the former senior political secretary to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, were remanded for six days on Saturday to assist the MACC in a corruption probe. Their detention followed Tei's claim that he had bribed Shamsul to recover funds allegedly distributed to Sabah assemblymen.
Tei, at the center of the alleged Sabah mining scandal, is facing trial on two counts of giving bribes in a separate case. Additionally, Sofia Rini Buyong, who is also under MACC investigation in connection with Tei's allegations, was arrested on Thursday night and remains in remand until tomorrow.
