Malaysia’s recently retired anti-corruption chief, Azam Baki, is under police investigation for allegedly threatening a whistle-blower linked to a mineral licence scandal involving politicians in Sabah.

Azam accused Albert Tei of “playing games” and spreading misinformation after the businessman lodged a report earlier this month, which prompted the police to pursue the case under criminal intimidation provisions.

Officers also recorded statements from Tei and his lawyer, who was allegedly used as an intermediary to convey the threat, state news agency Bernama reported on Tuesday.

“Further investigations into this case are still being carried out transparently and the police require some time to complete them before any conclusions are made,” Bukit Aman criminal investigation director M. Kumar said at a press conference in Selangor, adding that the investigation paper was in its final stage and would soon be referred to the Attorney General’s Chambers.

Tei claimed that Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) officers raided his home last November with guns drawn, restraining him with cable ties and intimidating his family after he exposed the Sabah affair.

He further alleged that Azam had threatened, obstructed and victimised him over the corruption case – allegations the former corruption-buster called baseless.