Malaysian police suspend 12 officers over alleged crypto robbery of Chinese national in Kajang

The alleged Kajang crypto heist, which reportedly took place in Kajang, Selangor, has triggered scrutiny within the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) after Selangor Police confirmed the arrest of 12 personnel linked to the case. The investigation is ongoing, and police leadership has pledged firm action if misconduct is proven.

Officers reassigned as Kajang crypto heist probe continues

Speaking to reporters after attending the Seri Negara Foundation Contribution Ceremony and the presentation of Wakalah Zakat by PBLT Sdn Bhd at the Cheras District Police Headquarters, Mohd Khalid said the officers implicated in the Kajang crypto heist have been reassigned to non-operational roles.

“For the time being, we are not assigning them any active duties. They are placed in office roles to ensure the investigation can be carried out properly and thoroughly,” — Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail, Inspector-General of Police, Royal Malaysia Police.

He emphasized that the administrative move does not prejudge the outcome of the Kajang crypto heist investigation but is designed to ensure procedural fairness and transparency. According to the Inspector-General, investigators are in the process of completing the inquiry, including recording statements from relevant individuals, before determining further action.

The decision to remove the officers from frontline duties reflects the seriousness with which PDRM is treating the Kajang crypto heist allegations, particularly given the involvement of law enforcement personnel.

Alleged Kajang crypto heist involves foreign national

Details surrounding the Kajang crypto heist remain limited, but Selangor Police Chief Datuk Shazeli Kahar confirmed last Friday that 12 police personnel were arrested in connection with a robbery case involving cryptocurrency theft.

The victim in the alleged Kajang crypto heist is reported to be a Chinese national. Authorities have not publicly disclosed the value of the cryptocurrency allegedly stolen or the specific circumstances under which the incident occurred in Kajang earlier this month.

The case underscores the growing complexity of crypto-related crimes in Malaysia, where digital assets are increasingly targeted due to their portability and the challenges associated with tracing transactions. In the Kajang crypto heist investigation, police are expected to analyze digital evidence alongside traditional investigative procedures.

While officials have not released further operational details, the arrests mark a significant development in what could become a high-profile internal accountability case within Malaysia’s police force.

PDRM vows firm action over Kajang crypto heist

Mohd Khalid stressed that the Royal Malaysia Police will not compromise if wrongdoing is established in the Kajang crypto heist case.

“This action will not stop here, and we will ensure that if there has been a breach of the law or misconduct, we will take action. We will open an investigation paper and proceed with charges as appropriate,” — Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail, Inspector-General of Police, Royal Malaysia Police.

His remarks signal that, beyond the immediate Kajang crypto heist allegations, the force is prepared to pursue disciplinary and legal measures where necessary. The Inspector-General’s statement also reflects institutional concern about maintaining public confidence at a time when law enforcement accountability is under scrutiny.

The removal of the 12 personnel from active duty allows investigators to proceed without concerns over interference or conflicts of interest. It also sends a message that the leadership of PDRM views the Kajang crypto heist allegations as a matter requiring independent and thorough review.

Broader implications for digital crime enforcement

The Kajang crypto heist investigation comes amid a broader rise in digital asset-related crime globally. As cryptocurrency adoption grows, so too do cases involving theft, fraud, and extortion linked to digital wallets and exchanges.

For Malaysia, the case may prompt renewed attention to internal controls and oversight mechanisms within enforcement agencies handling cyber and financial crimes. The involvement of serving personnel in the alleged Kajang crypto heist, if substantiated, could have reputational consequences for the force.

At present, the investigation remains active. Authorities have not indicated when it will conclude or whether formal charges will follow. The officers remain assigned to office roles pending the outcome of the inquiry.

As the Kajang crypto heist case unfolds, the Royal Malaysia Police’s handling of the investigation — including its transparency and adherence to due process — will likely shape public perception of accountability within the institution.

For now, officials have made clear that no individual is above the law, and that any confirmed breach related to the Kajang crypto heist will be met with appropriate legal action.