KUALA LUMPUR: Police said today that US$972 million (RM3.985 billion) was transferred to ex-prime minister Najib Razak ‘s personal account through unlawful (haram) activities.
However, the investigation of 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) case will be completed by May 2019 if mutual legal assistance (MLA) is given by United States of America (USA), Switzerland, Singapore and Saudi Arabia, according to the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP).
Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Noor Rashid Ibrahim said, the investigation is tough as it involves other countries and need their approval to record statements from witnesses that have been identified and documenting evidences.
“Under the law we are supposed to complete the investigation within one year. The chances to complete the investigation depend on other countries’ cooperation as they might have things to discuss at their level,” he said at a press conference in Bukit Aman today.
Noor Rashid added, in the investigation, it was found that most transactions took place overseas and Malaysian Police have to request for aids under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (AAMLATFPUAA).
He also said that at the moment the Malaysian Attorney General has been discussing with overseas authorities and follow-ups have been going to get information and documents from them.
Earlier Noor Rashid said the police have focused their investigations amongst others on the joint-venture between 1MDB and Petro-Saudi International Limited, giving loans in the form of “Nota Murabaha” worth USD3.5 billion, buying assets worth USD3 billion in energy sectors involving Tanjung and Genting companies by 1MDB-Global Investment Limited a subsidiary company of 1MDB, and the joint venture between Tun Abdul Razak Exchange and AABAR company.
The Deputy IGP also mentioned that following the Dang Wangi Report, on 17 May 2018, the police has started its investigation under AAMLATFPUAA 2001.
The investigation involved five premises that were sealed under Section 45 (2) of the same Act. The things seized were cash amounting RM114 million, 566 jewelleries; 566 hand bags; 437 watches and 234 glasses of different brands.
He also said, under the Act a one year period is provided for investigations on moveable and not moveable properties that were seized.
Regarding to the party involved in the seizure of such properties, Noor Rashid said, the police has sent notice to the person (owner) under Section 32/ AAMLATFPUAA 2001 to give statement to the investigating officer.
“We are expecting that person to come forward in one or two day’s time. We sent the notice to an individual and not organisation,” he said referring to the claims made in the media about the seizure of the said properties. –Malaysia World News.
