KUALA LUMPUR: Fugitive financier Low Taek Jho, also known as Jho Low, is believed to have informed the task force investigating the 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) scandal that he is ready to meet them in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to assist in the probe.
Citing a government source, a local English language portal reported that Low’s lawyers are expected to meet with officials from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in Dubai soon to discuss how their client could assist in the investigation of the state fund.
Government officials believe that Low has a close relationship with influential stakeholders in Dubai, the report said, adding that the 1MDB scandal could involve another individual who is based in the emirate.
Authorities also believe that Low is seeking protection in Macau, the UAE and several other countries which do not have extradition treaties with Malaysia.
The MACC issued an arrest warrant for Low last week, and the government has contacted Interpol for help in apprehending him.
His exact whereabouts have long been a mystery.
Authorities are reportedly optimistic that the Penang-born businessman could help them in their efforts to recover and identify assets and funds purchased using 1MDB funds.
Low has been on the run ever since news of the scandal broke in 2015, and he allegedly received protection from former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and the Barisan Nasional-led government, the report said.
However, everything changed when Pakatan Harapan (PH) took over Putrajaya after winning the 14th general election on May 9. The investigation into 1MDB has since been prioritised by new Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
Low has been described as the “best witness” to provide information on alleged crimes involving 1MDB.