High-Ranking Military Officer Charged with RM5 Million Breach of Trust

KUALA LUMPUR – A senior officer of the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) was charged in the Sessions Court today with criminal breach of trust (CBT) involving RM5 million from the Armed Forces Welfare Fund (TKAT) approximately two years ago.

Major General Datuk Mohamed Fauzi Kamis, 56, pleaded not guilty after the charge was read before Judge Suzana Hussin. Mohamed Fauzi, who currently serves as the Chief of Staff of the Joint Forces Headquarters, maintained his innocence and requested a trial.

Unauthorized Investment Allegations The prosecution alleges that during his tenure as the Assistant Chief of Staff for Personnel Services and Chairman of the TKAT Investment Committee, Mohamed Fauzi dishonestly misappropriated RM5 million belonging to the fund.

The court heard that the accused purportedly made an additional investment in a company called Precious Amber International Berhad without obtaining the necessary approval from the TKAT Investment Committee. The offense was allegedly committed at the Ministry of Defence (Kementah) on Jalan Padang Tembak on November 27, 2023.

Under Section 409 of the Penal Code, a conviction for criminal breach of trust by a public servant carries a mandatory prison sentence of at least two years and up to 20 years, along with whipping and a potential fine.

Bail and Legal Proceedings Deputy Public Prosecutor Law Chin How initially proposed bail at RM300,000, citing the gravity of the offense and the accused’s high-ranking position, which involves frequent international travel.

However, defense counsel Datuk Ahmad Zaharil Muhaiyar appealed for a lower amount, arguing that his client has three school-going children and remains a serving officer who is committed to attending all court proceedings.

Judge Suzana subsequently set bail at RM100,000 with one surety. As an additional condition, the court ordered Mohamed Fauzi to surrender his passport until the conclusion of the case. The court has scheduled March 16 for the next case mention.

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