Hisham condemns theft from bank accounts of MH370 victims

KUALA LUMPUR: Defense Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein (pix) condemned the illegal withdrawals of money from the accounts of four flight MH370 passengers.
He said the act was unforgivable, especially when the families of those on board the missing flight, which disappeared on March 8, has no closure on the incident.
"Please do not take advantage and exploit these innocent family members," he said.
Hishammuddin, who was acting Transport Minister and had handled the issue before relinquishing his duties to Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai in July, expressed hopes that justice will be carried out swiftly against the perpetrators.
A bank officer and her husband claimed trial to multiple charges involving illegal transfer and withdrawal of money, amounting to RM110,643, from the accounts of four passengers at the Jalan Duta Sessions Court earlier today.
Speaking to reporters at the Defence Ministry here, he said the MH370 next-of-kin committee, headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Hamzah Zainuddin will handle such matters and assist the family members.
Hishammuddin also said that the cabinet had discussed the next phase of the search today.
"This will involve us (the authorities) looking at the issue of cost sharing between Australia and Malaysia.
"It is important to note that the Cabinet appreciates and is thankful for Australia's contribution thus far in the search efforts for MH370," he said.
He added that several leaders, including Liow, Hamzah and Deputy Defence Minister Datuk Rahim Bakri will be heading to Canberra, Australia next week.
"The delegation will be attending a tripartite meeting between Malaysia, Australia and China," he said, adding that the Malaysian delegates will sign a Memorandum of Understanding between Malaysia and Australia that has been approved by both governments in the search for the missing airplane.
"It is important to note that Malaysia's participation in the search efforts will continue," he said.