Najib: Action against Sarawak Report after probe complete

(Bernama) – The government will take action after the probe over allegations made by Sarawak Report against 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) is wrapped up, said Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

The Prime Minister was asked on the government’s action against the website, said to have obtained and reported information gathered from former PetroSaudi International Ltd executive Xavier Justo, who is under arrest in Thailand.

On Wednesday, Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said he was informed that Justo was the individual responsible for distributing inaccurate information to Sarawak Report, triggering numerous unfounded allegations against 1MDB.

“We must wait for the report and get confirmation from the Thai authorities. I understand that the Thai police will inform the Malaysian police soon,” said Najib.

“When we are informed of the admission made, get clear evidence from the Thai government on behalf of their police, only then will the Malaysian government take the appropriate action.

“I do not want to supercede the official report from the Thai authorities. The Inspector-General of Police and the Home Minister are awaiting the report from Thailand,” he said after chairing the Umno supreme council meeting here on Friday.

Several newspapers had on Wednesday reported that Justo was arrested by Thai police on charges of extorting PetroSaudi, quoting Thai media and the company.

PetroSaudi, a multinational oil and gas company based in Saudi Arabia, has been in the limelight in Malaysia following its previous collaboration with 1MDB.

Najib also did not deny the involvement of insiders in relation to the (1MDB) controversy, saying: “We do not know. Might be.”