Hindraf supporters probed for alleged misuse of funds

The probe by the Malaysian police follows the detention of five leaders of non-governmental Hindu Rights Action Forum (Hindraf), who were taken into custody last month under the controversial Internal Security Act after they organised a massive rally, declared illegal by the government, against the alleged marginalistion of their community.

The money amounting to about 700,000 ringgit (USD 215,000), which was collected by the group during special prayers, forums and from donations, was meant to finance charity work as well as aid the families of its detained leaders, the Star daily reported quoting police.

Deputy Inspector-General of Police Ismail Omar said police received a report that alleged the funds were being misused by Hindraf supporters.

"The report lodged alleged that several people entrusted with managing the money had allegedly misused the money for personal gain. We are investigating the matter and have classified the case as criminal breach of trust," he was quoted as saying.

Ismail said police would seek to find who had been entrusted with managing the cash, how much had been collected, how many bank accounts had been opened and what had been done with the money.