“Based on witness testimony and documents obtained by EAIC, we cannot confirm the existence of a cartel within the police force as alleged by Hamid,” EAIC chairman Sidek Hassan said in a statement.

“Our investigations found that there is basis (to claims) that there are police officers involved in criminal syndicates, with investigations conducted by the police and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) on these officers.”

Sidek said the findings have been submitted to the chief secretary to the government, Zuki Ali.

Before his retirement last March, Hamid claimed there was a cartel of officers who had been working with criminals to depose him as the IGP.

His successor, Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani, said last May that the EAIC was looking into the matter.

While the home ministry had also refuted Hamid’s allegations in the past, it said the police  referred the matter to the EAIC to ensure an “independent and transparent investigation”.

Stating that EAIC’s investigation into the matter has now been completed, Sidek said the commission could not verify Hamid’s claims as the police and the Police Force Commission (SPP) maintain a careful mechanism for appointments, promotions and transfers.

Sidek added that the process had several layers, which made it hard for outsiders to interfere.

Adding that the IGP is a permanent member of the SPP, Sidek said that any suggestion on appointments, promotions and transfers of top police officers would have to get the IGP’s approval.

“Abdul Hamid Bador’s position as the IGP was not threatened as the IGP is appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong upon the advice of the Prime Minister.”

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