Police are taking steps to verify a claim that fugitive businessman Low Taek Jho, better known as Jho Low, was present in Malaysia at the end of last year, inspector-general of police Khalid Ismail said on Friday.
Khalid told reporters on the sidelines of an Autism Day celebration here that authorities have yet to confirm whether the allegation holds any truth, but said the matter is being treated seriously.
“Appropriate action is being taken to determine whether the matter is true or not. We haven’t verified it yet. Investigations are ongoing, and we will ensure the process is carried out properly and smoothly,” he said.
Sarawak Report article triggers probe
Khalid was responding to questions about an article published by Sarawak Report, which alleged that Jho Low had entered Malaysia as part of a Chinese delegation visiting the country towards the end of last year.
He did not elaborate on the specifics of the investigation but assured that police would issue an official statement should any new developments emerge.
Fugitive wanted in Malaysia and the US
Jho Low has been a wanted man for years, facing multiple charges of corruption and money laundering in both Malaysia and the United States over his alleged central role in the misappropriation of at least US$4.5 billion from state investment fund 1MDB.
He has consistently denied any wrongdoing, and his exact whereabouts remain unknown. The latest claim, if verified, would mark a significant development in one of the most high-profile financial scandals in Malaysian history.
