The detention of three individuals, including a 'Tan Sri', was done in a professional manner to facilitate investigations into leaked information involving the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) probe said Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Ahmad Zahid who is also the Deputy Prime Minister said the three individuals were released at 11pm last night.

"The investigation was based on information and reports received and police will be carrying out investigations to determine if the information was leaked by someone from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), Attorney-General’s Chambers (AG), Bank Negara or the police.

"Those involved will not be spared from investigations," he told reporters at the Kepong Wanita UMNO Division Delegates Meeting here today.

The three detained were a former Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) advisory board member, Attorney-General’s Chambers finance and anti-money laundering secretariat member, and a MACC deputy public prosecutor.

Ahmad Zahid said the main focus on the probe remains on whether the leaked information was sold or given to the Sarawak Report and other online portals.

"The action of the police must be seen as a professional procedure in accordance with the law," he said.

The image of the Prime Minister cannot be tarnished by any information leaked from any specific department or task force, he said.