Security was visibly tightened at the Kota Kinabalu Court Complex this morning as two Sabah assemblymen and a businessman arrived to face corruption charges in connection with an alleged mining-related scandal that has rocked the state’s political circles.

Dozens of plainclothes and uniformed police officers were stationed outside the Special Corruption Court from as early as 7.30am, with additional personnel manning key entry points to control the flow of supporters, media personnel and members of the public.

The accused – Sipitang assemblyman Datuk Yusof Yacob, Pintasan assemblyman Datuk Andi Suryady Bandy, and businessman Datuk Tei Jiann Cheing – arrived separately.

All three were ushered directly into the courtroom, avoiding the packed corridors where reporters and supporters had gathered.

The charges are believed to stem from a Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) investigation into the alleged payment and receipt of bribes involving mining licenses.

The court was filled to capacity, with many attendees forced to wait outside as proceedings began behind closed doors.

Both Yusof and Andi are represented by a legal team comprising Shahlan Jufri, Ridwandean Borhan and senior counsel Datuk Ram Singh.

Tei is represented by Edward Paul. The prosecution is led by Deputy Public Prosecutors Nurul Izzati Sapiflee and Rustam Sanip. – June 30, 2025