Jasmine's arrest doesn't guarantee Jho Low's capture - MACC

SEPANG - The successful arrest of former 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) lawyer Jasmine Loo Ai Swan does not guarantee that fugitive businessman Low Taek Jho, also known as Jho Low, will be arrested anytime soon.

Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki expressed doubt that Jho Low, the alleged mastermind behind the high-profile 1MDB case, could be located and apprehended in the near future.

He explained that numerous factors, including the ongoing investigation involving Jasmine, need to be considered before any action can be taken.

"Jasmine is currently under investigation by the MACC for money laundering and corruption.

"Although she is not detained at the MACC facility but is under police custody, we are collaborating with the police in her investigation," he told a press conference today.

Azam added that Jasmine's questioning had been ongoing for three days, and if necessary, they would seek assistance from the police to continue the investigation.

The remarks came after Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay revealed that assets acquired by Jasmine were linked to misappropriated 1MDB funds and gifts from Jho Low.

Police had traced assets belonging to Jasmine worth RM93.2 million.

Jasmine, who served as 1MDB's legal advisor, had been receiving a monthly salary of RM40,000 since May 2011.

Azam further mentioned that MACC and police are working to repatriate any excess funds identified during the ongoing investigation. However, the results so far were similar to recent confiscations, and he was uncertain if more assets or money would be recovered in the future.