IGP: Jho Low unlikely to be in the US
GEORGE TOWN: The InspectorGeneral of Police says fugitive financier Low Taek Jho is highly unlikely to be in the United States.
Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador, in dismissing a claim by New Yorkbased entertainment portal Page Six that Low was spotted at a dinner party in Hollywood, said: “It is highly unlikely that Jho Low is in Los Angeles now, as their border checks are very strict.
“Logically, the border controls in America, be it land, air or sea are very, very tight.
“I would not expect Jho Low to be able to sneak his way into the United States.
“If that happens under the noses of the American authorities, it would be very embarrassing.
“But I’m pretty sure he is not there,” he told a press conference after the 72th Marine Police Day celebration at the marine police base in Batu Uban yesterday.
The IGP said police knew the whereabouts of Low, also known as Jho Low, and were determined to bring him back by the end of the year.
“We are working hand-in-hand with the police in the country where Low is hiding. It is premature now to say which country it is.
“I am negotiating with them and have set a target, which is to bring Low back by the end of this year.
“He deserves to be tried here,” he added.
Low is wanted in connection with investigations into the 1Malaysia Development Bhd scandal.
On a separate issue, Abdul Hamid said he welcomed Sarawak’s proposal to set up its own marine police by creating the Sarawak Marine Coastal Unit.
“We welcome parties who want to set up boats to safeguard their assets.
“It is impossible for the marine police to control every inch of the coastal areas,” he added.