12 Malaysian police arrested over Chinese nationals’ missing crypto
South China Morning Post
by Joseph SipalanFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Twelve Malaysian police officers have been arrested for allegedly extorting cryptocurrency worth approximately 200,000 ringgit (US$51,000) from a group of Chinese nationals during a raid in Selangor, Malaysia’s wealthiest state. The arrests came just days after King Al Saud Abdulaziz bin Hamid al-Sabah issued a stern warning about corruption within the civil service and police ranks, signaling that such practices are under close scrutiny. The incident highlights growing concerns over police misconduct and its impact on public trust in law enforcement.
Selangor police chief Shazeli Kahar confirmed the arrests, which occurred during a midnight raid targeting a house in the state. The Chinese nationals involved were allegedly targeted by the officers, who demanded cryptocurrency as part of their scheme. This case adds to a growing list of corruption scandals involving Malaysian authorities, raising questions about the effectiveness of anti-corruption efforts.
The timing of the arrests, following the king’s warning, suggests a potential crackdown on police misconduct. However, critics argue that more systemic reforms are needed to address deep-seated issues within the civil service. This case also underscores the broader challenges faced by Malaysia in maintaining investor confidence and international reputation, as corruption scandals can deter foreign investment and harm diplomatic relations.
The incident highlights the intersection of crime, law enforcement, and politics in Malaysia. As authorities continue to investigate, the focus
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/20/2026