IGP warns cops against accepting ang pow

Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain said every policeman is required to undergo a 15-minute briefing and inspection conducted by their supervisor as per the SOP of the police force. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain has issued a stern reminder that it is a serious offence for police to accept envelopes filled with money, or ang pow, while on duty.

“They receive a monthly salary. If they are not working, then they can receive ang pow from friends or family members in conjunction with any celebration.

“Before commencing their duties, every policeman is required to undergo a 15-minute briefing and inspection conducted by their supervisor as per the standard operating procedure of the police force,” he told reporters after the launch of Op Selamat 21 and VSP 2.0 in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebration at Persada PLUS, Subang, here today, as reported by Bernama.

Malaysia’s top cop was responding to revelations that a police sergeant was allegedly caught out during a spot check by Bukit Aman’s integrity and standards compliance department, The Star reported.

The sergeant was apparently ordered to open the station’s safe, which contained thousands of ringgit stuffed into ang pow packets. Additionally, a source said he also had similar ang pow packets on his person. The cash had allegedly come from local businesses.

“A good supervisor will conduct an inspection both before going on duty and after completion of duty,” Razarudin said, adding that this procedure had been emphasised to all police commissioners, state and district police chiefs, and senior police officers nationwide.

“They need to ensure the supervision of everyone on duty in their respective administrations,” he said.