Crime & Courts

Ex-Johor exco relieved over acquittal from corruption, money-laundering charges [NSTTV]

JOHOR BAHRU: Former Johor executive councillor Datuk Abd Latif Bandi has expressed relief over his acquittal from corruption charges.

"I am grateful to Allah and thank my family, legal team and friends who have remained by my side," said the 56-year-old.

Latif and his son, Ahmad Fauzan Hatim, 30, performed the "sujud syukur" (prostrating in gratitude to God) in the dock after the Johor Baru Sessions Court acquitted and freed them, as well as real estate agent Amir Shariffuddin Abd Raub, 49, of corruption and money laundering today.

The trio had been accused of being involved in corruption and money-laundering amounting to RM33.5 million, five years ago.

Latif, outside the courtroom, also embraced his wife, Datin Nor Karmila Md Nor, who was overcome with emotion by the ruling.

Latif, who is a former Endau assemblyman, said everything he had gone through over the last five years as a test from Allah.

"After this, I plan to spend more time with my family. I thank my family, friends as well as lawyers who have remained by my side," he said when met outside the courtroom.

Latif, dressed in a batik shirt, arrived in court at 8.40am, accompanied by his wife and family.

Lead defence counsel Datuk Salehuddin Saidin said the legal team would represent Latif, Fauzan and Amir Shariffuddin until the case concluded.

"Whether the prosecution appeals ... that is normal. Anyone who has been ruled against will likely appeal to a higher court."

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