PDRM Scores Major Success in Operation Northern Star: 8 Arrested, Assets Worth RM3.17 Billion Seized

Photo Credit: PDRM

KUALA LUMPUR, 11 April 2025 – The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), through its Anti-Money Laundering (AMLA) Investigation Team under the Inspector-General of Police Secretariat (USKPN) at Bukit Aman, achieved a significant breakthrough in Operation Northern Star, apprehending eight individuals and seizing assets valued at over RM3.17 billion. The cross-border operation was launched on 20 March 2025, following a “Red Notice” from Interpol.

According to a media statement by the Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Razarudin bin Husain, the arrests involved seven men and one woman, aged between 44 and 62 years. Among those detained were two businessmen and two lawyers, all bearing the title of Dato’. The suspects are currently under remand for one to seven days for further investigation under Section 4(1) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (AMLATFPUAA).

The operation targeted a fraudulent investment syndicate operating a “Ponzi Scheme” known as MBI Investment, based in a neighboring country. Through a series of raids, PDRM successfully froze and seized various assets derived from illicit activities, including:

• 638 bank and share accounts worth RM1.16 billion

• 35 properties estimated at RM2 billion

• 10 luxury vehicles

• 12 luxury watches

• Cash in various foreign currencies and Malaysian Ringgit

• Two pieces of jewelry

• Six mobile phones, two laptops, and four luxury handbags

• Various important documents

  
  

The total value of seized and frozen assets is estimated at RM3,174,769,204.74. All assets are believed to be linked to the proceeds of the fraudulent investment scheme.

PDRM is committed to continuing investigations into any individuals or entities suspected of involvement in money laundering activities, including acquiring, concealing, transferring, or using illicit proceeds. The public is urged to remain vigilant against suspicious investment activities and to report any relevant information to the authorities.

“In our efforts to combat money laundering, public cooperation is crucial. We call on everyone to stay cautious and assist PDRM in eradicating this crime,” said Tan Sri Razarudin.

This operation underscores PDRM’s dedication to tackling financial crimes and safeguarding the interests of Malaysians against the threats posed by investment fraud syndicates.