KUALA LUMPUR: Twenty-two policemen were suspects in commercial crimes last year, the country's top cop has revealed.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said, more worryingly, 23 policemen were involved in commercial crimes in the first nine months of this year.
"I always stress the need for drastic changes in our work culture and integrity levels among each policeman, so we remain respected and relevant.
"Despite the numerous reminders and warnings, integrity and compliance levels are still worrying," he said in a speech at the IGP's monthly assembly.
This month's assembly was hosted by the Commercial Crime Investigation Department.
Razarudin said the police's credibility and image were tarnished when a policeman is arrested for a crime, be it drug possession, bribery or abuse of power.
He said he was saddened every time a policeman committed a crime, saying their abuse of the trust and the good name of the police reflected their selfishness.
"Integrity is the core in shaping and strengthening our identity," he said.