The escort services provided by special forces members for former defence minister Hishammuddin Hussein was to have ceased following the conclusion of the 14th general election.

In a statement, the Armed Forces said it had terminated such services for the former minister immediately after the May 9 polls.

This comes following a Malaysiakini report yesterday which revealed that three military special forces personnel were still serving the minister.

Sources told the news portal that two of the officers are still on active duty with the Navy's special operation forces (Paskal), while the third is a commando.

This prompted Defence Minister Mohamad Sabu to order an immediate probe.

The Armed Forces today confirmed that it has conducted an investigation into the claims as instructed, but did not elaborate on its findings.

Even so, it said it will come down hard on any serving officers who are found to be carrying out duties for any unauthorised party.

"The Armed Forces will take appropriate action to ensure members who are still serving do not carry out any jobs for those who have no right nor link, based on the current regulations.

"At the same time, stern action will be taken against any of its members found to have violated the current rules and regulations," the statement read.

Yesterday, Hishammuddin admitted to the allegations, but claimed the officers were merely serving as his escorts "temporarily".

He said they had become close to him and his family, and that he had offered them jobs, provided they first resign from the Armed Forces with immediate effect.