The Malaysian Insight

INSPECTOR-GENERAL of Police Mohamad Fuzi Harun has again refuted claims that bodyguard services for former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad had been withdrawn, saying the police only reduced the number of officers. 

“We just scaled down (the number of officers). It all depends on threats; if we think there is a serious threat against him, we will beef up the number and provide the necessary security. 

“At the moment, even his wife has a female Special Action Force (UTK) officer serving her, (and) we provide security for his house. Many quarters are making baseless allegations,” he said today in Cheras, referring to Dr Mahathir’s wife, Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali.

On Nov 1, Dr Mahathir said on his Facebook page that the police had withdrawn the bodyguard service, which is accorded to all former prime ministers.

Dr Mahathir yesterday also reiterated that the treatment against him was uncalled for as none of the other prime ministers were treated his way. 

The 92-year-old former prime minister is now chairman of the opposition coalition Pakatan Harapan and also leads one of its component parties, Bersatu.

Last year, Dr Mahathir’s police outriders were withdrawn following his continued attendance at anti-government events.

He said Putrajaya had withdrawn some of his perks and even barred him from using public facilities. 

He quit Umno in February last year after disagreement with Prime Minister Najib Razak over his management of the economy and alleged corruption concerning 1Malaysia Development Bhd. – November 11, 2017.