Malaysians will remember the infamous 1MDB financial corruption scandal as we are still feeling its aftereffects. Unfortunately, the case isn’t closed yet as not all key players have been arrested, especially financial fugitive Low Taek Jho aka Jho Low.
But, the net has been closing in on several of Jho Low’s associates. In May, Jho Low’s right-hand man, Kee Kok Thiam (纪国添) returned to Malaysia and was detained, however, he later passed away. Now, another of his associates has reappeared, a former 1MDB lawyer named Jasmine Loo.
A warrant for Jasmine Loo’s arrest was initially issued in 2018, shortly after she and several others associated with the 1MDB scandal failed to appear in court to face charges. Along with the former SRC International CEO Nik Faisal Ariff Kamil, former 1MDB executive director Tang Keng Chee, and Geh Choh Heng, the quartet left Malaysia before 9th May, the 14th general election.
Earlier in January, the High Court in Kuala Lumpur also reportedly announced the decision to forfeit two luxury cars and RM22,600 in cash, all belonging to Jasmine, to the government. However, the woman herself was nowhere to be found, at least until last Friday, when she was reportedly arrested. According to home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Jasmine Loo was remanded the next day to assist in the 1MDB scandal investigations.
The minister added that they believe Jasmine has information regarding the scandal. He also told the media: “(Jasmine’s) lawyer has stated that she is ready to offer her cooperation to the police and government.” But, he declined to give further details regarding Jasmine’s arrest. She is, however, being investigated under Section 409 of the Penal Code.
No further information has been given about Jasmine Loo. However, we hope that the information she holds will be able to shed further light on the 1MDB scandal and hopefully aid in closing the case on it.
Sources: China Press, Free Malaysia Today, Malay Mail
