Bernama reported that the Umno secretary-general was freed of the charges this morning after paying a RM1.1 million compound.

He previously claimed trial to charges of failing to declare some RM2 million he received from Najib Razak to the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN).

Ahmad was alleged to have violated Section 113(1)(a) of the Income Tax Act 1967 by not stating his real income on the RM2 million he received from the former prime minister in the income tax return form for assessment year 2013.

He was alleged to have received the money, believed to be proceeds of illegal activities, through a cheque from AmIslamic Bank Bhd dated Nov 27, 2013, which he personally cashed the same day.

The charge, framed under Section 4(1)(a) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (Amla), provides for a maximum fine of RM5 million, or imprisonment for up to five years, or both, if found guilty.

Ahmad was also accused of giving false statements to MACC when questioned by investigating officer Mohd Zairi Zainal at the media conference room of the Parliament building here between 2.45pm and 3.30pm on July 4, 2019.

The charge, framed under Section 32(8)c) of Amla, provides for a maximum fine of RM3 million, or imprisonment for up to five years, or both, if found guilty.

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