S'pore police launch probe into 2 accounts linked to 1MDB

THE Singapore police have launched a probe into possible money laundering offences in relation to two Singapore bank accounts involved in the 1Malaysia Development Bhd saga.

The Singapore Police Force also told The Business Times that they had on July 15 issued orders to freeze the two accounts. They were responding to queries from BT on whether the police here were taking any action to investigate 1MDB's money trail and if any specific accounts related to individuals linked to the firm were being probed for suspicious transactions.

It said MAS has been in close contact with the relevant financial institutions.

SPF said the investigation into possible money laundering offences comes under Section 47 of the Corruption, Drug Trafficking and Other Serious Crimes (Confiscation of benefits) Act, Chapter 65A. It also cited the Criminal Procedure Code to "prohibit any dealings in respect of money in two bank accounts that are relevant to the investigation."

It added that Singapore will continue to provide its full assistance to the relevant authorities in Malaysia within the ambit of its laws and international obligations in relation to investigations across the Causeway into 1MDB probe.