KUCHING: THE Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) yesterday deployed a forensic team to investigate the BMX track in Bukit Siol, as investigations into the deplorable state of the cycling facility enter the technical phase.
Sources said the team was at the track in the morning to determine whether the foundation work had been up to specifications or otherwise, following complaints that the facility did not meet proper standards.
However, they declined to reveal who made up the team.
It was previously reported that the commission might seek the help of technical experts from other agencies, including the Public Works Department, to assist the probe.
“The forensic team was supposed to scour the area to see whether the construction of the track was up to specifications.
“This technical investigation will give us an idea on whether there were elements of corruption that led to the deplorable state of the track, as alleged by some quarters,” said a source.
He did not elaborate on the outcome and findings compiled by the team.
Sarawak MACC director Datuk Badrul Shah Norman could not be reached to confirm the matter.
A New Straits Times team sent to the track, located next to the Northern Kuching City Council building, was believed to have just missed the team.
The NST understands that findings from the investigation on the ground yesterday will be corroborated with statements recorded from individuals directly involved in the planning and awarding of contracts for the construction of the track.
Earlier this month, the graft busters questioned at least six people, including Sarawak Cycling Association secretary Zulaihi Seri, over the construction of the BMX track, which was used for cycling events during the 18th Malaysia Games.
The commission had also raided houses of two of the association’s officials prior to the interrogation and seized several documents.
The issue came to light following complaints by several quarters over the deplorable state of the track, despite it getting the go ahead from Malaysian National Cycling Federation president Datuk Abu Samah Abd Wahab.