The fugitive Malaysian financier Low Taek Jho, commonly known as Jho Low, was recently spotted in the coronavirus-center Chinese city according to Malaysian authorities.
“Previously, we did receive intelligence that he was active in Wuhan,” said Inspector-General of Police Abdul Hamid Bador.
Low is wanted for his huge role in a massive graft scandal, siphoning billions of dollars from sovereign wealth fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).
Malaysian police are now on the lookout for his return amid the COVID-19 outbreak although it was not confirmed if he was able to leave China before the implementation of the lockdown that began in January.
Abdul Hamid said that he has also instructed the country’s main international airport to strictly observe the arriving passengers as Low may possibly move back home as the virus spreads.
“I have told Kuala Lumpur International Airport to monitor if he comes back with Covid-19… because our health facilities are the best … We will give him the best treatment,” the Inspector-General jokingly said.
The authorities earlier reported that Low was in a jurisdiction with which Malaysia has an extradition treaty. They have also promised to bring back the notorious businessman before 2019 ends.
Malaysia has recently sought help from Interpol to track down Low for him to face criminal charges for allegedly masterminding the 1MDB scandal.
Low first made headlines in 2015 when former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak was accused of channeling RM2.67 billion (US$700 million) from the government-run strategic development company to his personal accounts.
The 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal has been a major issue in Malaysia for several years, with widespread allegations of corruption and embezzlement. The scandal has had significant implications for the country’s economy and political landscape. The Malaysian government has been working to recover the stolen funds and bring those responsible to justice.
The COVID-19 outbreak has presented new challenges for law enforcement agencies around the world, including those involved in the pursuit of fugitives like Jho Low. The lockdowns and travel restrictions implemented in response to the pandemic have made it more difficult for individuals to move undetected, but they have also created new obstacles for authorities seeking to track and apprehend suspects.
In this context, the Malaysian authorities’ efforts to monitor Jho Low’s movements and prevent his potential return to the country take on added significance. Malaysia’s cooperation with international law enforcement agencies, such as Interpol, is a key aspect of its efforts to bring Jho Low to justice. The country’s participation in international extradition treaties and its collaboration with other nations in the pursuit of fugitives demonstrate its commitment to upholding the rule of law and combating corruption.
The successful prosecution of individuals involved in the 1MDB scandal would send a strong signal about Malaysia’s determination to address corruption and ensure accountability. The potential return of Jho Low to Malaysia also raises questions about the country’s public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Inspector-General of Police’s comment about providing Low with medical treatment if he returns to the country highlights the challenges posed by the pandemic, as well as the need for authorities to balance their law enforcement responsibilities with public health concerns. As the pandemic continues to evolve, it is likely that Malaysian authorities will need to navigate these complex issues in their pursuit of Jho Low.
