The Putrajaya Sessions Court today issued a warrant of arrest against controversial billionaire Low Taek Jho, better known as Jho Low, and his father Low Hock Peng to assist in the investigation of the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal.

The warrant was issued after the court allowed an application by the police and the Attorney-General's Chambers to seek the order so as to enable the two to be repatriated to face money-laundering charges against them.

Inspector-General of Police Mohamad Fuzi Harun, when confirming the matter in a statement, said the warrant would enable the police to seek cooperation from Interpol to issue a red notice to detect and arrest the duo.

He said the warrant of arrest was obtained after the charges against Jho Low and his father were filed at the Putrajaya Sessions Court in accordance with Section 4 (1) of the Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorism Financing Act (AMLATFA) 2001.

"The Commercial Crime Investigation Department has conducted an investigation into 1MDB for various criminal offences involving the financial transactions and businesses conducted by the company.

"The investigation papers were referred to the Attorney-General's Chambers and a decision was made to charge the two individuals in court today," he said.

He said Jho Low, 36, was charged with eight counts while Hock Peng, 66, was charged with one count under Section 4 (1) of AMLATFA 2001.

According to media reports, the two are currently believed to be either in China or Abu Dhabi.

The Immigration Department had cancelled Jho Low's passport on June 15 at the request of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) following its investigation into the 1MDB scandal. 

– Bernama