Mandiri directors arrested in Amla investigation

KUALA LUMPUR: Executive director Amir Hariri Abdul Hadi and finance director Dobby Chew of Mandiri have been arrested in an ongoing Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (Amla) investigation, according to the company's co-founder Mohammad Alshatri Abdullah. The pair had gone to police voluntarily to record their statements as part of the investigation, stating they had been cooperating with investigators and providing requested documents.

Earlier, they had been barred from leaving the country and had their accounts frozen. After learning of the restrictions, the two went to Bukit Aman and sought clarification on the basis of the investigation from the Amla unit. Mandiri's office was also raided amid the probe, with lawyers seeking clarification on the predicate offence underlying the Amla investigation.

No clear explanation was provided, but Mandiri continued to cooperate with investigators, handing over requested documents. After completing their statements, the pair were subsequently arrested and are expected to be held at the Jinjang lock-up, potentially facing a court tomorrow for a remand application. Further information on the case is anticipated once investigators decide whether to seek additional detention for the pair.

Police have yet to release a detailed statement on the arrests or disclose the predicate offence under investigation.