Rosmah Mansor, the former first lady of Malaysia, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for soliciting and receiving bribes in exchange for government contracts.

Rosmah Mansor, the former first lady of Malaysia, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for soliciting and receiving bribes in exchange for government contracts. The Kuala Lumpur High Court Judge Mohamed Zaini Mazlan said that Mansor, 70, will pay a fine of US$216 million, which is a record amount in Malaysia's history. The judge added that the prosecution proved their case beyond a reasonable doubt. The announcement comes days after her husband, former Prime Minister Najib Razak, was jailed for corruption. Currently, Rosmah is out on bail but she will end up in jail if she loses appeals in two higher courts. ALSO READ | An 11.15 carat pink diamond expected to be auctioned off for over $21 million Rosmah's extravagant lifestyle It appears that the sentencing and the potential jail term will largely impact her extravagant lifestyle, which is defined by her love for expensive handbags and diamond jewellery. Reports mentioned that she amassed hundreds of expensive Hermes Birkin handbags when her husband Najib Razak was prime minister. Birkin bags can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars apiece. Her collection includes rare and expensive diamonds as well. News agency Reuters reported that police found 12,000 individual items of jewellery, 567 luxury handbags, 423 watches and $26 million in cash at properties linked to the couple. ALSO READ | Poland pegs World War II losses at $1.32 trillion, wants Germany to pay reparations Najib faced unexpected defeat in the 2018 elections when voters were apparently angry and disgusted over a multi-billion dollar corruption scandal at state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). The probe mentions several details about the scandal and the US and Malaysian investigators say expensive jewellery was purchased for her from some of $4.5 billion in stolen funds, including a $27 million pink diamond necklace. Although, Rosmah has not been charged over 1MDB. Later, The Wall Street Journal reported that she spent at least $6 million between 2008 and 2015 on shopping sprees in London, New York and elsewhere. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Malaysia's former first lady gets 10 years in prison. A goodbye to Birkin handbags and extravagant lifestyle?

Just days after her husband was sentenced to prison for corruption, Rosmah Mansor, the wife of former prime minister Najib Razak, appeared in court on Thursday to hear the verdict on the accusation against her of soliciting bribes in exchange for government contracts.

On the other hand, her husband Najib started serving a 12-year prison sentence last week in a multibillion-dollar fraud scandal (1MBD).

After Najib’s administration was ousted in 2018, he and his wife, who faced criticism for her extravagant lifestyle, were at the centre of anti-corruption campaigns.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/najib-razak-malaysias-former-pm-and-his-collapse-over-corruption-charges-509694">Also read |&nbsp;Najib Razak: Malaysia's former PM and his collapse over corruption charges</a>

Rosmah, 70, pleaded not guilty to three of the charges against her for soliciting and recovering bribes to help a company secure a $279 million solar power project from the government when her spouse was in power. The charges against the first lady carry penalties of up to 20 years in prison and a fine equal to five times the amount of the bribe, Reuters reported.

As per the prosecution, Rosmah received a bribe of 187.5 million ringgit and was given another 6.5 million ringgit by a business representative. However, in response to this, the latter said that various government officials, including her former assistant, are trying to set her up.

In a separate case, the first lady is also charged with 17 money laundering and tax evasion cases for receiving 7.1 million ringgits.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-army-tank-breaks-down-on-kuala-lumpur-highway-twitter-explodes-510784">Also read |&nbsp;Malaysian Army tank breaks down on Kuala Lumpur highway; Twitter explodes</a>

The former prime minister also remains on trial for four other corruption-related trials.

In the 1MBD scandal, the US department alleges that $4.5 billion was stolen, nearly $1 billion of which was sent to Najib’s personal bank accounts. The department further stated that some of the stolen funds from 1MBD were used to buy jewellery, including a $27 million pink diamond.

Rosmah is pursuing her request for the presiding judge to oversee the case. The trial has not yet started.

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Just days after her husband was sentenced to prison for corruption, Rosmah Mansor, the wife of former prime minister Najib Razak, appeared in court on Thursday to hear the verdict on the accusation against her of soliciting bribes in exchange for government contracts.

Just days after her husband was sentenced to prison for corruption, Rosmah Mansor, the wife of former prime minister Najib Razak, appeared in court on Thursday to hear the verdict on the accusation against her of soliciting bribes in exchange for government contracts. On the other hand, her husband Najib started serving a 12-year prison sentence last week in a multibillion-dollar fraud scandal (1MBD). After Najib’s administration was ousted in 2018, he and his wife, who faced criticism for her extravagant lifestyle, were at the centre of anti-corruption campaigns. Also read | Najib Razak: Malaysia's former PM and his collapse over corruption charges Rosmah, 70, pleaded not guilty to three of the charges against her for soliciting and recovering bribes to help a company secure a $279 million solar power project from the government when her spouse was in power. The charges against the first lady carry penalties of up to 20 years in prison and a fine equal to five times the amount of the bribe, Reuters reported. As per the prosecution, Rosmah received a bribe of 187.5 million ringgit and was given another 6.5 million ringgit by a business representative. However, in response to this, the latter said that various government officials, including her former assistant, are trying to set her up. In a separate case, the first lady is also charged with 17 money laundering and tax evasion cases for receiving 7.1 million ringgits. Also read | Malaysian Army tank breaks down on Kuala Lumpur highway; Twitter explodes The former prime minister also remains on trial for four other corruption-related trials. In the 1MBD scandal, the US department alleges that $4.5 billion was stolen, nearly $1 billion of which was sent to Najib’s personal bank accounts. The department further stated that some of the stolen funds from 1MBD were used to buy jewellery, including a $27 million pink diamond. Rosmah is pursuing her request for the presiding judge to oversee the case. The trial has not yet started. (With inputs from agencies)

Malaysia’s former first lady Rosmah appears in court for corruption trial, verdict to be announced soon

A Malaysian court on Thursday sentenced Rosmah Mansor, the wife of former Prime Minister Najib Razak, to a decade in prison for seeking and receiving bribes in exchange for government contracts, just days after her husband was jailed for corruption.

The couple has&nbsp;been the focus of multiple graft investigations since Najib's surprise election defeat in 2018, when voters' anger over a separate, multi-billion dollar corruption scandal ended his nine years in power.

A flamboyant figure by Najib's side, Rosmah was widely scorned in Malaysia for her extravagant lifestyle and penchant for Hermes Birkin bags, and faced repeated questions over her influence in government matters.

Rosmah will also have to pay a fine of 970 million ringgit ($216.45 million) - a record amount in Malaysia's history - over three bribery charges, Kuala Lumpur High Court Judge Mohamed Zaini Mazlan said, adding that the prosecution proved their case beyond a reasonable doubt.

She will remain free on bail pending appeals to higher courts.

Rosmah, dressed in a yellow baju kurung - a traditional Malaysian long blouse and skirt - and matching headscarf, addressed the judge tearfully immediately after the verdict.

"I must admit that I'm very sad with what happened today," she said. "Nobody saw me taking the money, nobody saw me counting the money.... but if that's the conclusion, I leave it to God."

Her lawyers had asked for a one-day jail sentence, while prosecutors sought "maximum or near maximum."

Rosmah, 70, had pleaded not guilty to the three charges of soliciting and receiving bribes between 2016 and 2017 to help a company secure a $279 million solar power supply project from Najib's government.

Prosecutors say Rosmah sought a bribe of 187.5 million ringgit ($41.80 million), and received 6.5 million ringgit from an official of the company that won the project.

Rosmah has argued that she was framed by her former aide as well as several government and company officials involved in the project.

She also faces 17 charges of money laundering and tax evasion in a separate case.

Her lawyer Jagjit Singh said Rosmah was shocked with the verdict.

"The fine imposed today is unprecedented...To say she is upset is putting it mildly," he told reporters after the sentencing.

HUNDREDS OF HANDBAGS

Last week, Najib began serving a 12-year jail sentence after Malaysia's top court upheld his conviction in a case linked to a multibillion-dollar graft scandal at state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). He remains on trial in four other corruption cases.

Najib was voted out of power amid public outrage over the 1MDB scandal, which is the subject of corruption and money laundering investigations in at least six countries.

The U.S. Department of Justice alleges that $4.5 billion were stolen from 1MDB, about $1 billion of which made their way into Najib's personal bank accounts.

Some of the funds stolen from 1MDB were used to buy jewellery for Rosmah, including a $27 million pink diamond necklace, U.S. lawsuits say.

Police found 12,000 individual items of jewellery, 567 luxury handbags including brands such as Hermes and Chanel, 423 watches and $26 million in cash at properties linked to the couple following Najib's unexpected defeat in the 2018 election.

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A Malaysian court on Thursday sentenced Rosmah Mansor, the wife of former Prime Minister Najib Razak, to a decade in prison for seeking and receiving bribes in exchange for government contracts, just days after her husband was jailed for corruption.

A Malaysian court on Thursday sentenced Rosmah Mansor, the wife of former Prime Minister Najib Razak, to a decade in prison for seeking and receiving bribes in exchange for government contracts, just days after her husband was jailed for corruption. The couple has been the focus of multiple graft investigations since Najib's surprise election defeat in 2018, when voters' anger over a separate, multi-billion dollar corruption scandal ended his nine years in power. A flamboyant figure by Najib's side, Rosmah was widely scorned in Malaysia for her extravagant lifestyle and penchant for Hermes Birkin bags, and faced repeated questions over her influence in government matters. Rosmah will also have to pay a fine of 970 million ringgit ($216.45 million) - a record amount in Malaysia's history - over three bribery charges, Kuala Lumpur High Court Judge Mohamed Zaini Mazlan said, adding that the prosecution proved their case beyond a reasonable doubt. She will remain free on bail pending appeals to higher courts. Rosmah, dressed in a yellow baju kurung - a traditional Malaysian long blouse and skirt - and matching headscarf, addressed the judge tearfully immediately after the verdict. "I must admit that I'm very sad with what happened today," she said. "Nobody saw me taking the money, nobody saw me counting the money.... but if that's the conclusion, I leave it to God." Her lawyers had asked for a one-day jail sentence, while prosecutors sought "maximum or near maximum." Rosmah, 70, had pleaded not guilty to the three charges of soliciting and receiving bribes between 2016 and 2017 to help a company secure a $279 million solar power supply project from Najib's government. Prosecutors say Rosmah sought a bribe of 187.5 million ringgit ($41.80 million), and received 6.5 million ringgit from an official of the company that won the project. Rosmah has argued that she was framed by her former aide as well as several government and company officials involved in the project. She also faces 17 charges of money laundering and tax evasion in a separate case. Her lawyer Jagjit Singh said Rosmah was shocked with the verdict. "The fine imposed today is unprecedented...To say she is upset is putting it mildly," he told reporters after the sentencing. HUNDREDS OF HANDBAGS Last week, Najib began serving a 12-year jail sentence after Malaysia's top court upheld his conviction in a case linked to a multibillion-dollar graft scandal at state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). He remains on trial in four other corruption cases. Najib was voted out of power amid public outrage over the 1MDB scandal, which is the subject of corruption and money laundering investigations in at least six countries. The U.S. Department of Justice alleges that $4.5 billion were stolen from 1MDB, about $1 billion of which made their way into Najib's personal bank accounts. Some of the funds stolen from 1MDB were used to buy jewellery for Rosmah, including a $27 million pink diamond necklace, U.S. lawsuits say. Police found 12,000 individual items of jewellery, 567 luxury handbags including brands such as Hermes and Chanel, 423 watches and $26 million in cash at properties linked to the couple following Najib's unexpected defeat in the 2018 election. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Malaysia's former first lady Rosmah Mansor sentenced to 10 years in jail for graft

<a href="Malaysian ex-PM's wife Rosmah Mansor faces fresh corruption charges">Malaysia</a>'s&nbsp;former&nbsp;first&nbsp;lady, who allegedly bankrolled a luxurious lifestyle with kickbacks and stolen public money, went&nbsp;on&nbsp;trial&nbsp;Wednesday for&nbsp;corruption&nbsp;for the&nbsp;first&nbsp;time since her husband lost power.

<a href="Malaysian ex-PM's wife Rosmah Mansor faces fresh corruption charges">Rosmah Mansor</a>, notorious for making overseas shopping trips and owning vast collections of handbags and jewellery, became a lightning rod for public anger as the government of prime minister <a href="Malaysian ex-PM's wife Rosmah Mansor faces fresh corruption charges">Najib Razak</a> was engulfed by&nbsp;corruption&nbsp;allegations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-ex-pms-wife-rosmah-mansor-faces-fresh-corruption-charges-209249">Malaysian ex-PM's wife Rosmah Mansor faces fresh corruption charges</a>

Her husband's long-ruling coalition suffered a shock election defeat in 2018 in large part due to claims he and his officials plundered billions of dollars from sovereign wealth fund 1MDB.

Both Najib and his wife have since been hit with multiple charges over the looting of the investment vehicle, but Rosmah's&nbsp;first&nbsp;trial&nbsp;centres&nbsp;on&nbsp;allegations she received bribes linked to a government project.

Prosecutors allege she pocketed 6.5 million ringgit for helping a company secure the project to provide solar power generators to schools&nbsp;on&nbsp;the&nbsp;Malaysian&nbsp;part of <a href="Malaysian ex-PM's wife Rosmah Mansor faces fresh corruption charges">Borneo island</a>.&nbsp;

The 68-year-old is also accused of soliciting a further 187.5 million ringgit.

Rosmah faces three counts of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-malaysian-pms-wife-appears-court-face-corruption-charges-169315">corruption</a>&nbsp;for the offences, which allegedly took place in 2016 and 2017.

Malaysia's former first lady, who allegedly bankrolled a luxurious lifestyle with kickbacks and stolen public money, went on trial Wednesday for corruption for the first time since her husband lost power.

Malaysia's former first lady, who allegedly bankrolled a luxurious lifestyle with kickbacks and stolen public money, went on trial Wednesday for corruption for the first time since her husband lost power. Rosmah Mansor, notorious for making overseas shopping trips and owning vast collections of handbags and jewellery, became a lightning rod for public anger as the government of prime minister Najib Razak was engulfed by corruption allegations. Also read: Malaysian ex-PM's wife Rosmah Mansor faces fresh corruption charges Her husband's long-ruling coalition suffered a shock election defeat in 2018 in large part due to claims he and his officials plundered billions of dollars from sovereign wealth fund 1MDB. Both Najib and his wife have since been hit with multiple charges over the looting of the investment vehicle, but Rosmah's first trial centres on allegations she received bribes linked to a government project. Prosecutors allege she pocketed 6.5 million ringgit for helping a company secure the project to provide solar power generators to schools on the Malaysian part of Borneo island. The 68-year-old is also accused of soliciting a further 187.5 million ringgit. Rosmah faces three counts of corruption for the offences, which allegedly took place in 2016 and 2017.

Malaysia's former first lady goes on trial for corruption

The wife of Malaysia's ex-prime minister was Wednesday hit with a new corruption charge, the 20th since her husband's shock election loss, and complained she was the victim of "slander".

Rosmah Mansor - widely reviled in Malaysia due to her penchant for lavish overseas shopping sprees -- was charged with accepting a $1.2 million&nbsp;bribe in relation to a government solar power project.

She has already been hit with a barrage of money laundering and tax evasion charges linked to the looting of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-to-sell-1mdb-linked-super-yacht-207637">sovereign wealth fund 1MDB</a>.

Allegations that she, her husband Najib Razak, and his cronies stole billions of dollars from the fund and went on a global shopping spree played a major role in the election loss of Najib's coalition last year.

Appearing in a Kuala Lumpur court, Rosmah denied the latest charge against her -- that she accepted a kickback to help a company secure a project providing solar power generators to schools.

Afterwards, Rosmah told reporters that people had started apologising to her and Najib for having believed "all the slander" against them.&nbsp;

"People chose to listen to all the lies, to all the untrue stories that have been told," she said. "I will remain patient and face all the trials and tribulations which Allah has made go through."

The 67-year-old had already been hit with two charges over the solar power case in November, when she was accused of accepting bribes worth 189 million ringgit. The other charges she faces relate to the plundering of 1MDB.&nbsp;

She denies any wrongdoing.

Since his election loss, Najib has also been arrested and hit with multiple charges linked to the 1MDB scandal. He went on trial for the first time over the multi-billion-dollar fraud last week. He denies wrongdoing.

Najib and Rosmah's lavish lifestyles came to symbolise the rot in Malaysia's ruling elite.&nbsp;

Following the election, police discovered valuables, including cash, jewellery and luxury handbags, worth up to $273 million in properties linked to the couple.

The wife of Malaysia's ex-prime minister was Wednesday hit with a new corruption charge, the 20th since her husband's shock election loss, and complained she was the victim of "slander".

The wife of Malaysia's ex-prime minister was Wednesday hit with a new corruption charge, the 20th since her husband's shock election loss, and complained she was the victim of "slander". Rosmah Mansor - widely reviled in Malaysia due to her penchant for lavish overseas shopping sprees -- was charged with accepting a $1.2 million bribe in relation to a government solar power project. She has already been hit with a barrage of money laundering and tax evasion charges linked to the looting of sovereign wealth fund 1MDB. Allegations that she, her husband Najib Razak, and his cronies stole billions of dollars from the fund and went on a global shopping spree played a major role in the election loss of Najib's coalition last year. Appearing in a Kuala Lumpur court, Rosmah denied the latest charge against her -- that she accepted a kickback to help a company secure a project providing solar power generators to schools. Afterwards, Rosmah told reporters that people had started apologising to her and Najib for having believed "all the slander" against them. "People chose to listen to all the lies, to all the untrue stories that have been told," she said. "I will remain patient and face all the trials and tribulations which Allah has made go through." The 67-year-old had already been hit with two charges over the solar power case in November, when she was accused of accepting bribes worth 189 million ringgit. The other charges she faces relate to the plundering of 1MDB. She denies any wrongdoing. Since his election loss, Najib has also been arrested and hit with multiple charges linked to the 1MDB scandal. He went on trial for the first time over the multi-billion-dollar fraud last week. He denies wrongdoing. Najib and Rosmah's lavish lifestyles came to symbolise the rot in Malaysia's ruling elite. Following the election, police discovered valuables, including cash, jewellery and luxury handbags, worth up to $273 million in properties linked to the couple.

Malaysian ex-PM's wife Rosmah Mansor faces fresh corruption charges

Rosmah Mansor, the wife of former Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak, has<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-malaysian-pms-wife-appears-court-face-corruption-charges-169315"> drawn questions over her spending habits</a> and luxurious lifestyle from citizens grappling with a rising cost of living.

Her penchant for handbags has prompted Malaysians to draw parallels with a passion for accessories displayed by Imelda Marcos, the former first lady of the Philippines, who owned hundreds of pairs of designer shoes.

On Thursday, Rosmah was charged with 17 counts of money laundering, and pleaded not guilty to all of them.

Najib has been charged with money laundering, abuse of power and criminal breach of trust over millions of dollars the US Justice Department says were misappropriated from state fund 1MDB.

Najib, who lost an election in May, has pleaded not guilty to the charges and consistently denied wrongdoing.

Here are details about Rosmah:

Humble beginnings

Born in 1951, she hails from Kuala Pilah, a town in Malaysia’s southwestern state of Negeri Sembilan, and studied sociology and anthropology before taking a master’s degree in the United States.

First Lady

In 1987, Rosmah married Najib, then Malaysia’s youth and sports minister, the second marriage for both. They have two children, and five stepchildren from earlier marriages.

Najib became prime minister in 2009.

In 2011, news of a division in the prime minister’s office devoted to the First Lady of Malaysia (FLOM) sparked anger from the opposition and public, prompting the removal of its website listing. The incident fed speculation that Rosmah’s role in government extended beyond being the prime minister’s wife.

Big spender

Domestic and international media said Rosmah was a big spender, with the Wall Street Journal reporting credit charges of at least $6 million between 2008 and 2015 on shopping sprees in London, New York and elsewhere.

In 2015, she faced public ire for complaining at having to pay 1,200 ringgit ($300) for a single hair-dyeing session, at a time when Malaysia’s minimum wage was 900 ringgit a month.

Handbag collection

Rosmah’s penchant for designer accessories has been a theme on Malaysian social media, particularly an array of handbags estimated to cost thousands of dollars each turned up by police searches at premises linked to the couple.

Police seized 567 luxury handbags, including 272 Hermes bags they said were worth nearly $13 million, in the raids.

Najib has said most of the seized items were gifts.

Pink Diamonds

In 2017, the US Department of Justice (DoJ) said nearly $30 million from the fund, 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), was spent on jewelry for Rosmah, including a $27 million pink diamond necklace set.

Najib told Reuters in an interview that his wife never received the pink diamond set.

Rosmah Mansor, the wife of former Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak, has drawn questions over her spending habits and luxurious lifestyle from citizens grappling with a rising cost of living.

Rosmah Mansor, the wife of former Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak, has drawn questions over her spending habits and luxurious lifestyle from citizens grappling with a rising cost of living. Her penchant for handbags has prompted Malaysians to draw parallels with a passion for accessories displayed by Imelda Marcos, the former first lady of the Philippines, who owned hundreds of pairs of designer shoes. On Thursday, Rosmah was charged with 17 counts of money laundering, and pleaded not guilty to all of them. Najib has been charged with money laundering, abuse of power and criminal breach of trust over millions of dollars the US Justice Department says were misappropriated from state fund 1MDB. Najib, who lost an election in May, has pleaded not guilty to the charges and consistently denied wrongdoing. Here are details about Rosmah: Humble beginnings Born in 1951, she hails from Kuala Pilah, a town in Malaysia’s southwestern state of Negeri Sembilan, and studied sociology and anthropology before taking a master’s degree in the United States. First Lady In 1987, Rosmah married Najib, then Malaysia’s youth and sports minister, the second marriage for both. They have two children, and five stepchildren from earlier marriages. Najib became prime minister in 2009. In 2011, news of a division in the prime minister’s office devoted to the First Lady of Malaysia (FLOM) sparked anger from the opposition and public, prompting the removal of its website listing. The incident fed speculation that Rosmah’s role in government extended beyond being the prime minister’s wife. Big spender Domestic and international media said Rosmah was a big spender, with the Wall Street Journal reporting credit charges of at least $6 million between 2008 and 2015 on shopping sprees in London, New York and elsewhere. In 2015, she faced public ire for complaining at having to pay 1,200 ringgit ($300) for a single hair-dyeing session, at a time when Malaysia’s minimum wage was 900 ringgit a month. Handbag collection Rosmah’s penchant for designer accessories has been a theme on Malaysian social media, particularly an array of handbags estimated to cost thousands of dollars each turned up by police searches at premises linked to the couple. Police seized 567 luxury handbags, including 272 Hermes bags they said were worth nearly $13 million, in the raids. Najib has said most of the seized items were gifts. Pink Diamonds In 2017, the US Department of Justice (DoJ) said nearly $30 million from the fund, 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), was spent on jewelry for Rosmah, including a $27 million pink diamond necklace set. Najib told Reuters in an interview that his wife never received the pink diamond set.

Factbox: Rosmah Mansor, the former first lady of Malaysia

Malaysia's anti-graft agency arrested former first lady Rosmah Mansor on Wednesday and she will be charged with money laundering, her lawyer told Reuters.

Rosmah, the wife of former prime minister Najib Razak, was detained after being questioned by the anti-graft agency, her lawyer, K Kumaraendran, said.

She will be charged on Thursday, a source with direct knowledge of the matter said.

Last Wednesday, anti-graft investigators spent nearly 13 hours recording Rosmah's statement as part of their inquiry into 1MDB.

The couple's world has been turned upside down since Najib lost the May election to his one-time mentor Mahathir Mohamad, who swiftly reopened a probe into 1MDB.

Corruption accusations have dogged Najib for years, and came to a head in 2015, when the Wall Street Journal reported that nearly $700 million in 1MDB funds was diverted to his personal bank account.

Rosmah, 66, has long been in the public eye over her penchant for handbags, jewellery and shopping sprees.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Malaysia's anti-graft agency arrested former first lady Rosmah Mansor on Wednesday and she will be charged with money laundering, her lawyer told Reuters. Rosmah, the wife of former prime minister Najib Razak, was detained after being questioned by the anti-graft agency, her lawyer, K Kumaraendran, said.

Malaysia's anti-graft agency arrested former first lady Rosmah Mansor on Wednesday and she will be charged with money laundering, her lawyer told Reuters. Rosmah, the wife of former prime minister Najib Razak, was detained after being questioned by the anti-graft agency, her lawyer, K Kumaraendran, said. She will be charged on Thursday, a source with direct knowledge of the matter said. Last Wednesday, anti-graft investigators spent nearly 13 hours recording Rosmah's statement as part of their inquiry into 1MDB. The couple's world has been turned upside down since Najib lost the May election to his one-time mentor Mahathir Mohamad, who swiftly reopened a probe into 1MDB. Corruption accusations have dogged Najib for years, and came to a head in 2015, when the Wall Street Journal reported that nearly $700 million in 1MDB funds was diverted to his personal bank account. Rosmah, 66, has long been in the public eye over her penchant for handbags, jewellery and shopping sprees. (With inputs from Reuters)

Wife of former Malaysian PM Najib Razak arrested by anti-graft agency

The luxury-loving wife of Malaysia's former prime minister was Wednesday questioned for almost 13 hours by investigators probing the multi-billion-dollar scandal that helped topple her husband's government.

Rosmah Mansor, widely reviled in Malaysia due to her profligate spending on luxury goods and imperious manner, arrived at the anti-corruption agency before 10:00 am (0200 GMT).

Wearing a bright green dress and headscarf, the 66-year-old emerged close to 11:00 pm and was whisked away in a car. Officials are said to be in the final stages of investigating her over the alleged looting of state fund 1MDB and she could reportedly be charged soon.

It was the second time she had been questioned by the graft-fighting body since her husband Najib Razak's coalition was unexpectedly ousted from office at elections in May after six decades in power.&nbsp;

A major factor in the loss were allegations that Najib, his family and his cronies looted billions of dollars from 1MDB in an audacious fraud that stretched from Singapore to Switzerland.

Najib was last week hit with a barrage of money-laundering and abuse of power charges over the scandal. It is alleged that hundreds of millions of dollars ended up in his personal bank accounts. He denies any wrongdoing.

Rosmah's love of costly overseas shopping trips, designer handbags and jewellery made her a lightning rod for public anger, and fuelled suspicions that she benefited from the plundering of 1MDB.

After the election loss, a stash of cash, jewellery and hundreds of designer handbags worth as much as $273 million was seized from properties linked to Najib in raids around Kuala Lumpur.

Rosmah is often compared to Imelda Marcos, who left behind more than a thousand pairs of shoes after her husband, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, was ousted in 1986.

Najib's fall from grace has been swift since he lost power to a reformist alliance led by Mahathir Mohamad, 93, who is in his second stint as premier.

The luxury-loving wife of Malaysia's former prime minister was Wednesday questioned for almost 13 hours by investigators probing the multi-billion-dollar scandal that helped topple her husband's government.

The luxury-loving wife of Malaysia's former prime minister was Wednesday questioned for almost 13 hours by investigators probing the multi-billion-dollar scandal that helped topple her husband's government. Rosmah Mansor, widely reviled in Malaysia due to her profligate spending on luxury goods and imperious manner, arrived at the anti-corruption agency before 10:00 am (0200 GMT). Wearing a bright green dress and headscarf, the 66-year-old emerged close to 11:00 pm and was whisked away in a car. Officials are said to be in the final stages of investigating her over the alleged looting of state fund 1MDB and she could reportedly be charged soon. It was the second time she had been questioned by the graft-fighting body since her husband Najib Razak's coalition was unexpectedly ousted from office at elections in May after six decades in power. A major factor in the loss were allegations that Najib, his family and his cronies looted billions of dollars from 1MDB in an audacious fraud that stretched from Singapore to Switzerland. Najib was last week hit with a barrage of money-laundering and abuse of power charges over the scandal. It is alleged that hundreds of millions of dollars ended up in his personal bank accounts. He denies any wrongdoing. Rosmah's love of costly overseas shopping trips, designer handbags and jewellery made her a lightning rod for public anger, and fuelled suspicions that she benefited from the plundering of 1MDB. After the election loss, a stash of cash, jewellery and hundreds of designer handbags worth as much as $273 million was seized from properties linked to Najib in raids around Kuala Lumpur. Rosmah is often compared to Imelda Marcos, who left behind more than a thousand pairs of shoes after her husband, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, was ousted in 1986. Najib's fall from grace has been swift since he lost power to a reformist alliance led by Mahathir Mohamad, 93, who is in his second stint as premier.

Malaysia ex-PM's wife quizzed for almost 13 hours in graft probe

The luxury-loving wife of Malaysia's former prime minister faced fresh questioning Wednesday by anti-corruption investigators probing a multi-billion-dollar scandal that contributed to the old regime losing power.

Rosmah Mansor, widely reviled in Malaysia for her expensive tastes and imperious manner, arrived at the offices of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to be grilled.&nbsp;

Local media reported this week that anti-corruption officials were wrapping up their probe into Rosmah, and she could be charged soon.

It was the second time she has been quizzed by the graft-fighting body since her husband Najib Razak's coalition was unexpectedly booted out of office at elections in May after six decades in power.&nbsp;

A major factor in the loss were allegations that Najib, his family and his cronies looted billions of dollars from state fund 1MDB in an audacious fraud that stretched from Singapore to Switzerland.

Rosmah's love of costly overseas shopping trips, designer handbags and jewellery made her a lightning rod for public anger, and fuelled suspicions that she benefitted from the plundering of 1MDB.

After the election loss, a stash of cash, jewellery and hundreds of designer handbags worth as much as $273 million was seized from properties linked to Najib in raids around Kuala Lumpur.

Rosmah is often compared to Imelda Marcos, who left behind more than a thousand pairs of shoes after her husband, Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos, was ousted in 1986.

Najib's fall from grace has been swift since he was ousted from power by a reformist alliance led Mahathir Mohamad, 93, who is in his second stint as premier.

The ex-leader has been arrested and hit with 32 charges linked to the 1MDB scandal, including allegations that hundreds of millions of dollars ended up in his personal bank account. He denies any wrongdoing.

The luxury-loving wife of Malaysia's former prime minister faced fresh questioning Wednesday by anti-corruption investigators probing a multi-billion-dollar scandal that contributed to the old regime losing power.

The luxury-loving wife of Malaysia's former prime minister faced fresh questioning Wednesday by anti-corruption investigators probing a multi-billion-dollar scandal that contributed to the old regime losing power. Rosmah Mansor, widely reviled in Malaysia for her expensive tastes and imperious manner, arrived at the offices of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to be grilled. Local media reported this week that anti-corruption officials were wrapping up their probe into Rosmah, and she could be charged soon. It was the second time she has been quizzed by the graft-fighting body since her husband Najib Razak's coalition was unexpectedly booted out of office at elections in May after six decades in power. A major factor in the loss were allegations that Najib, his family and his cronies looted billions of dollars from state fund 1MDB in an audacious fraud that stretched from Singapore to Switzerland. Rosmah's love of costly overseas shopping trips, designer handbags and jewellery made her a lightning rod for public anger, and fuelled suspicions that she benefitted from the plundering of 1MDB. After the election loss, a stash of cash, jewellery and hundreds of designer handbags worth as much as $273 million was seized from properties linked to Najib in raids around Kuala Lumpur. Rosmah is often compared to Imelda Marcos, who left behind more than a thousand pairs of shoes after her husband, Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos, was ousted in 1986. Najib's fall from grace has been swift since he was ousted from power by a reformist alliance led Mahathir Mohamad, 93, who is in his second stint as premier. The ex-leader has been arrested and hit with 32 charges linked to the 1MDB scandal, including allegations that hundreds of millions of dollars ended up in his personal bank account. He denies any wrongdoing.

Former Malaysian PM's wife Mansor questioned by corruption investigators

Malaysian police said Friday they found cash amounting to almost $30 million in a raid on a luxury apartment as they probed corruption allegations swirling around ousted leader Najib Razak.

The money was seized along with 284 boxes containing designer handbags, as well as watches and jewellery from a condominium in Kuala Lumpur, which was raided along with Najib's home and other sites last week.

Najib's coalition was thrown out of power for the first time in over six decades in the May 9 poll, defeated by a reformist alliance headed by his former mentor Mahathir Mohamad.

Public disgust at allegations of corruption swirling around Najib was a major factor for the loss, with the ex-leader, his family and cronies accused of looting billions of dollars from sovereign wealth fund 1MDB.

There has been much speculation about what the seized goods consisted of and their value after five trucks were reportedly brought in to help move the vast stash.

Giving an update, the police's head of commercial crime Amar Singh said: "From the money found, there were 26 currencies, the total amount as of yesterday is 114 million (ringgit) ($28.6 million)."

The money was found in 35 bags while another 37 bags contained watches and jewellery, he told a press conference. The value of other items will be calculated later, he said.

The seizure of the luxury goods added to the public scorn of Najib's wife Rosmah Mansor, long reviled by Malaysians for her perceived haughty demeanour and reported vast collection of designer bags, clothing and jewellery.

Her love of overseas shopping trips, as middle-class Malaysians struggle with rising living costs, added to a sense of spreading, deeply-entrenched rot in the country's long-ruling elite.

The couple's fall from grace has been swift and hard.&nbsp

They have been barred from leaving the country and the ex-premier has been questioned by anti-graft investigators over claims 1MDB money ended up in his bank accounts, and looks likely to be charged.

Najib and the fund deny any wrongdoing.

The money was seized along with 284 boxes containing designer handbags, as well as watches and jewellery from a condominium in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysian police said Friday they found cash amounting to almost $30 million in a raid on a luxury apartment as they probed corruption allegations swirling around ousted leader Najib Razak. The money was seized along with 284 boxes containing designer handbags, as well as watches and jewellery from a condominium in Kuala Lumpur, which was raided along with Najib's home and other sites last week. Najib's coalition was thrown out of power for the first time in over six decades in the May 9 poll, defeated by a reformist alliance headed by his former mentor Mahathir Mohamad. Public disgust at allegations of corruption swirling around Najib was a major factor for the loss, with the ex-leader, his family and cronies accused of looting billions of dollars from sovereign wealth fund 1MDB. There has been much speculation about what the seized goods consisted of and their value after five trucks were reportedly brought in to help move the vast stash. Giving an update, the police's head of commercial crime Amar Singh said: "From the money found, there were 26 currencies, the total amount as of yesterday is 114 million (ringgit) ($28.6 million)." The money was found in 35 bags while another 37 bags contained watches and jewellery, he told a press conference. The value of other items will be calculated later, he said. The seizure of the luxury goods added to the public scorn of Najib's wife Rosmah Mansor, long reviled by Malaysians for her perceived haughty demeanour and reported vast collection of designer bags, clothing and jewellery. Her love of overseas shopping trips, as middle-class Malaysians struggle with rising living costs, added to a sense of spreading, deeply-entrenched rot in the country's long-ruling elite. The couple's fall from grace has been swift and hard. They have been barred from leaving the country and the ex-premier has been questioned by anti-graft investigators over claims 1MDB money ended up in his bank accounts, and looks likely to be charged. Najib and the fund deny any wrongdoing.

Almost $30 million seized in raids linked to Malaysian ex-PM Najib Razak

Ousted Malaysian premier Najib Razak is already in hot water over allegations he looted state funds, but his legal woes could worsen as calls grow for a fresh look at an even darker past scandal involving the grisly slaying of a young model.

The lurid earlier affair centred on allegations that Malaysian officials took huge kickbacks in the 2002 purchase of Scorpene submarines from France when Najib was defence minister.

The sensational saga transfixed Malaysia for years until the authoritarian former regime used its leverage to bury it, though whispers persisted that Najib, 64, and his wife Rosmah Mansor were deeply involved.

But Najib was trounced in a May 9 election and Malaysia's new government has vowed to investigate not only current allegations that he stole billions from sovereign wealth fund 1MDB, but also lift the lid on other unresolved scandals from the past.

"We are very encouraged by the quick moves so far on (1MDB) and that the government is taking previous corruption seriously," said Cynthia Gabriel, who heads the Center to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4), a Malaysian NGO.

"In this regard, scandals like Scorpene cannot be ignored. Pressure is building and its going to get more interesting."

Najib's immediate concern is allegations that he, his family, and cronies pillaged billions from 1MDB. He is barred from leaving Malaysia and police have seized large amounts of cash, jewels and luxury items from his home and other sites.

Alleged cover-up

But 1MDB pales in many ways to the Scorpene affair, which has sex, betrayal, submarines, a fugitive assassin, and an unfortunate Mongolian former model.

French submarine maker DCNS is alleged to have paid more than 114 million euros ($134 million) in kickbacks to a shell company linked to Abdul Razak Baginda, a close Najib associate who brokered the $1.1 billion submarine deal.

Abdul Razak's Mongolian mistress Altantuya Shaariibuu, who was said to have demanded a cut for translating during negotiations, was shot dead and her body blown up with military-grade plastic explosives near Kuala Lumpur in 2006.

Allegations that Najib and Rosmah were involved in the killing -- carried out by two government bodyguards -- were steadfastly denied. Najib also was forced to publicly deny having had an affair with Altantuya.

The case sank off the radar after a Malaysian court in 2008 cleared Abdul Razak of abetting the murder, sparking allegations of a huge cover-up to protect Najib, by then promoted to deputy prime minister.

But the election result changes the equation.

Sirul Azhar Umar, who was convicted along with another police bodyguard in the killing and fled to Australia in 2015, told a Malaysian news outlet Saturday he was ready to reveal who ordered the murder.

"I am willing to assist the new government to tell what actually transpired provided that the government grants me (a) full pardon," Sirul, who is in Australian immigration custody, told news website Malaysiakini.

Sirul has maintained that he and his accomplice were scapegoats for "important people", but with family still in Malaysia, he has so far held back revealing what happened.

Calls for new trial

Leading Malaysian politician Anwar Ibrahim, released from jail last week in the wake of the election and expected to eventually become prime minister, told AFP on Thursday that Sirul and his accomplice Azilah Hadri should be granted fresh trials.&nbsp

"At that time, the judiciary was compromised," Anwar, 70, said in an interview.

"I don't know to what extent Najib was involved or not, but he's certainly implicated in some way."

Also looming is a slow-moving effort in French courts that could reveal more.

French judicial sources last year told AFP that investigators there had indicted two former top French executives linked to the Scorpene deal, as well as Abdul Razak.

Following Malaysia's election, C4 publicly called for an immediate investigation of Najib and others over the submarines and Altantuya's murder.

Gabriel admits the sheer backlog of scandals under the past regime, including dodgy land deals, looting of timber resources, and numerous deaths of government critics while in police custody, could slow progress in the Scorpene case.

Powerful vested interests, such as former establishment figures now aligned with the new government, also may resist full transparency, she said.

"It might be tricky. But if they truly are now behind the rule of law, no stone should be unturned," Gabriel said.

Dredging up the truth in the Scorpene case can be risky.

In 2008, a private investigator involved in the affair, P. Balasubramaniam, implicated government officials including Najib in the murder. He quickly recanted, later saying he did so under duress, and fled to India.

He returned in 2013 vowing to reveal the truth just as Najib faced crucial elections.

He died two weeks later, with authorities blaming a heart attack.

The lurid earlier affair centred on allegations that Malaysian officials took huge kickbacks in the 2002 purchase of Scorpene submarines from France when Najib was defence minister

Ousted Malaysian premier Najib Razak is already in hot water over allegations he looted state funds, but his legal woes could worsen as calls grow for a fresh look at an even darker past scandal involving the grisly slaying of a young model. The lurid earlier affair centred on allegations that Malaysian officials took huge kickbacks in the 2002 purchase of Scorpene submarines from France when Najib was defence minister. The sensational saga transfixed Malaysia for years until the authoritarian former regime used its leverage to bury it, though whispers persisted that Najib, 64, and his wife Rosmah Mansor were deeply involved. But Najib was trounced in a May 9 election and Malaysia's new government has vowed to investigate not only current allegations that he stole billions from sovereign wealth fund 1MDB, but also lift the lid on other unresolved scandals from the past. "We are very encouraged by the quick moves so far on (1MDB) and that the government is taking previous corruption seriously," said Cynthia Gabriel, who heads the Center to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4), a Malaysian NGO. "In this regard, scandals like Scorpene cannot be ignored. Pressure is building and its going to get more interesting." Najib's immediate concern is allegations that he, his family, and cronies pillaged billions from 1MDB. He is barred from leaving Malaysia and police have seized large amounts of cash, jewels and luxury items from his home and other sites. Alleged cover-up But 1MDB pales in many ways to the Scorpene affair, which has sex, betrayal, submarines, a fugitive assassin, and an unfortunate Mongolian former model. French submarine maker DCNS is alleged to have paid more than 114 million euros ($134 million) in kickbacks to a shell company linked to Abdul Razak Baginda, a close Najib associate who brokered the $1.1 billion submarine deal. Abdul Razak's Mongolian mistress Altantuya Shaariibuu, who was said to have demanded a cut for translating during negotiations, was shot dead and her body blown up with military-grade plastic explosives near Kuala Lumpur in 2006. Allegations that Najib and Rosmah were involved in the killing -- carried out by two government bodyguards -- were steadfastly denied. Najib also was forced to publicly deny having had an affair with Altantuya. The case sank off the radar after a Malaysian court in 2008 cleared Abdul Razak of abetting the murder, sparking allegations of a huge cover-up to protect Najib, by then promoted to deputy prime minister. But the election result changes the equation. Sirul Azhar Umar, who was convicted along with another police bodyguard in the killing and fled to Australia in 2015, told a Malaysian news outlet Saturday he was ready to reveal who ordered the murder. "I am willing to assist the new government to tell what actually transpired provided that the government grants me (a) full pardon," Sirul, who is in Australian immigration custody, told news website Malaysiakini. Sirul has maintained that he and his accomplice were scapegoats for "important people", but with family still in Malaysia, he has so far held back revealing what happened. Calls for new trial Leading Malaysian politician Anwar Ibrahim, released from jail last week in the wake of the election and expected to eventually become prime minister, told AFP on Thursday that Sirul and his accomplice Azilah Hadri should be granted fresh trials. "At that time, the judiciary was compromised," Anwar, 70, said in an interview. "I don't know to what extent Najib was involved or not, but he's certainly implicated in some way." Also looming is a slow-moving effort in French courts that could reveal more. French judicial sources last year told AFP that investigators there had indicted two former top French executives linked to the Scorpene deal, as well as Abdul Razak. Following Malaysia's election, C4 publicly called for an immediate investigation of Najib and others over the submarines and Altantuya's murder. Gabriel admits the sheer backlog of scandals under the past regime, including dodgy land deals, looting of timber resources, and numerous deaths of government critics while in police custody, could slow progress in the Scorpene case. Powerful vested interests, such as former establishment figures now aligned with the new government, also may resist full transparency, she said. "It might be tricky. But if they truly are now behind the rule of law, no stone should be unturned," Gabriel said. Dredging up the truth in the Scorpene case can be risky. In 2008, a private investigator involved in the affair, P. Balasubramaniam, implicated government officials including Najib in the murder. He quickly recanted, later saying he did so under duress, and fled to India. He returned in 2013 vowing to reveal the truth just as Najib faced crucial elections. He died two weeks later, with authorities blaming a heart attack.

Lurid tale of bribery and murder looms anew for Malaysia's Najib

Malaysian police seized 284 boxes containing designer handbags and dozens of bags filled with cash and jewellery from a private residence linked to former prime minister Najib Razak on Friday morning.

The items were carted out of a luxury condominium during pre-dawn hours, and included "jewellery, watches and other valuables", police said.

"Exactly how much jewellery, I would not be able to say, because we know that we confiscated bags containing jewellery and the number of jewellery is rather big," Amar Singh, director of police commercial crime investigations, said in a brief presser at the scene recorded by local online channel Star TV.

Singh said police have carried out raids on six premises, which include the prime minister`s office and the prime minister`s official residence in Putrajaya and four private residences linked to the former premier.

Singh earlier confirmed&nbspthat the raids on the premises are related to an investigation into a multi-billion scandal involving the Najib-founded state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).

Malaysia`s newly-elected Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has barred Najib and his wife, Rosmah Mansor, from leaving the country. At least six countries, including the United States, are investigating 1MDB. Najib denies any wrongdoing.

Malaysia`s newly-elected Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has barred Najib and his wife, Rosmah Mansor, from leaving the country. At least six countries, including the United States, are investigating 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). Najib denies any wrongdoing.

Malaysian police seized 284 boxes containing designer handbags and dozens of bags filled with cash and jewellery from a private residence linked to former prime minister Najib Razak on Friday morning. The items were carted out of a luxury condominium during pre-dawn hours, and included "jewellery, watches and other valuables", police said. "Exactly how much jewellery, I would not be able to say, because we know that we confiscated bags containing jewellery and the number of jewellery is rather big," Amar Singh, director of police commercial crime investigations, said in a brief presser at the scene recorded by local online channel Star TV. Singh said police have carried out raids on six premises, which include the prime minister`s office and the prime minister`s official residence in Putrajaya and four private residences linked to the former premier. Singh earlier confirmed&nbspthat the raids on the premises are related to an investigation into a multi-billion scandal involving the Najib-founded state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). Malaysia`s newly-elected Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has barred Najib and his wife, Rosmah Mansor, from leaving the country. At least six countries, including the United States, are investigating 1MDB. Najib denies any wrongdoing.

Hundreds of designer handbags, jewellery, cash seized from former Malaysian PM's condo

Police conducted an extensive search of the home of Malaysia's scandal-tainted former PM on Thursday&nbsp;that his lawyer decried as "harassment", as the new government presses forward with probes into a massive graft scandal after seizing power in historic elections.

Police arriving in a dozen vehicles converged on the home of corruption-tainted Najib Razak in Kuala Lumpur beginning late&nbsp;Wednesday, drawing crowds of journalists and onlookers.

A lawyer for Najib said officers were searching the home and a separate apartment in a "money-laundering" probe.

The search at Najib's home continued into&nbsp;Thursday&nbsp;afternoon.

The new government headed by 92-year-old former premier Mahathir Mohamad, who secured a stunning election victory last week, has vowed to probe allegations that Najib oversaw the looting of a sovereign wealth fund.

But Najib's lawyer Harpal Singh Grewal said his client, 64, viewed the search as "harassment".

"The police just took some handbags and some clothes," Harpal said.&nbsp;

His mention of handbags prompted snickering on Malaysian social media.

Najib's wife Rosmah Mansor is ridiculed over her reported penchant for jet-set overseas shopping trips and a vast collection of designer handbags, clothing and jewellery, all symbolic -- critics say -- of the ousted government's lack of concern for economically struggling citizens.

Harpal said the house contained only personal belongings, though he added that police also were attempting to open a safe, the key for which had been "lost".

"This is harassment. Whatever... is in the house is not commensurate with the allegations," Harpal told AFP.

"(Najib) has told them: 'Tell me what you want. We will give.'"

Harpal said the search left Najib "very tired and visibly upset".

There was no indication that any arrests were planned.

Police officials confirmed the search to AFP but declined to give details.

The police action adds to a sense of rising legal peril for Najib, who was barred from leaving the country just days after the election over allegations that he, his family, and cronies looted billions from state investment fund 1MDB.

Last week's poll ended the six-decade reign of the authoritarian Barisan Nasional coalition. Mahathir had led the coalition from 1981-2003.

The search began just hours after the pardon and release from prison of Anwar Ibrahim, a top figure in the now-victorious political alliance.

Anwar, 70, had spent the last three years in jail under Najib.

Speaking to Australian media after his release, Anwar called also for a fresh look into another shocking scandal linked to Najib.

A young Mongolian woman, Altantuya Shaariibuu, was murdered and her body destroyed with explosives in Malaysia in 2006.&nbsp;

She had been the lover of a former close Najib associate who was accused of arranging kickbacks for the purchase of French submarines in 2002 at a time when Najib was defence minister.

A former Malaysian police officer Sirul Azhar Umar, who is now in Australian custody, has claimed that he was ordered by "important people" to carry out the killing who scapegoated him.&nbsp;

Anwar said Sirul, who later fled to Australia after being sentenced to hang over the murder, should be allowed to face a new trial back in Malaysia to get at the truth, The Australian newspaper said.

Najib has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing over the deal amid allegations that French submarine maker DCNS paid kickbacks of more than 114 million euros (US$142 million) for two Scorpene submarines.

Just before the police raid, Najib went to a nearby mosque for special prayers for the Islamic holy month Ramadan, which began&nbsp;Thursday&nbsp;in Malaysia.&nbsp;

Najib later tweeted a traditional prayer that calls for people to be forgiven of their sins.

As police searched Najib's home, spectator Mimie Lai, 45, said she had travelled to the scene to "see what happens to the ex-prime minister and all the scandals... involving him and his wife".

"I feel that finally, justice is coming, somebody heard... what the people are praying for," she said.

Anwar's release&nbsp;Wednesday&nbsp;captivated the nation, with ecstatic supporters and journalists mobbing him amid shouts of "Reformasi" (Reform) -- his rallying cry and Anwar declaring a "new dawn for Malaysia".

Anwar's old foe Mahathir is now an ally and has signalled his intention to eventually step aside so Anwar, his deputy prime minister in the 1990s, can take over.

Police arriving in a dozen vehicles converged on the home of corruption-tainted Najib Razak in Kuala Lumpur beginning late Wednesday, drawing crowds of journalists and onlookers

Police conducted an extensive search of the home of Malaysia's scandal-tainted former PM on Thursday that his lawyer decried as "harassment", as the new government presses forward with probes into a massive graft scandal after seizing power in historic elections. Police arriving in a dozen vehicles converged on the home of corruption-tainted Najib Razak in Kuala Lumpur beginning late Wednesday, drawing crowds of journalists and onlookers. A lawyer for Najib said officers were searching the home and a separate apartment in a "money-laundering" probe. The search at Najib's home continued into Thursday afternoon. The new government headed by 92-year-old former premier Mahathir Mohamad, who secured a stunning election victory last week, has vowed to probe allegations that Najib oversaw the looting of a sovereign wealth fund. But Najib's lawyer Harpal Singh Grewal said his client, 64, viewed the search as "harassment". "The police just took some handbags and some clothes," Harpal said. His mention of handbags prompted snickering on Malaysian social media. Najib's wife Rosmah Mansor is ridiculed over her reported penchant for jet-set overseas shopping trips and a vast collection of designer handbags, clothing and jewellery, all symbolic -- critics say -- of the ousted government's lack of concern for economically struggling citizens. Harpal said the house contained only personal belongings, though he added that police also were attempting to open a safe, the key for which had been "lost". "This is harassment. Whatever... is in the house is not commensurate with the allegations," Harpal told AFP. "(Najib) has told them: 'Tell me what you want. We will give.'" Harpal said the search left Najib "very tired and visibly upset". There was no indication that any arrests were planned. Police officials confirmed the search to AFP but declined to give details. The police action adds to a sense of rising legal peril for Najib, who was barred from leaving the country just days after the election over allegations that he, his family, and cronies looted billions from state investment fund 1MDB. Last week's poll ended the six-decade reign of the authoritarian Barisan Nasional coalition. Mahathir had led the coalition from 1981-2003. The search began just hours after the pardon and release from prison of Anwar Ibrahim, a top figure in the now-victorious political alliance. Anwar, 70, had spent the last three years in jail under Najib. Speaking to Australian media after his release, Anwar called also for a fresh look into another shocking scandal linked to Najib. A young Mongolian woman, Altantuya Shaariibuu, was murdered and her body destroyed with explosives in Malaysia in 2006. She had been the lover of a former close Najib associate who was accused of arranging kickbacks for the purchase of French submarines in 2002 at a time when Najib was defence minister. A former Malaysian police officer Sirul Azhar Umar, who is now in Australian custody, has claimed that he was ordered by "important people" to carry out the killing who scapegoated him. Anwar said Sirul, who later fled to Australia after being sentenced to hang over the murder, should be allowed to face a new trial back in Malaysia to get at the truth, The Australian newspaper said. Najib has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing over the deal amid allegations that French submarine maker DCNS paid kickbacks of more than 114 million euros (US$142 million) for two Scorpene submarines. Just before the police raid, Najib went to a nearby mosque for special prayers for the Islamic holy month Ramadan, which began Thursday in Malaysia. Najib later tweeted a traditional prayer that calls for people to be forgiven of their sins. As police searched Najib's home, spectator Mimie Lai, 45, said she had travelled to the scene to "see what happens to the ex-prime minister and all the scandals... involving him and his wife". "I feel that finally, justice is coming, somebody heard... what the people are praying for," she said. Anwar's release Wednesday captivated the nation, with ecstatic supporters and journalists mobbing him amid shouts of "Reformasi" (Reform) -- his rallying cry and Anwar declaring a "new dawn for Malaysia". Anwar's old foe Mahathir is now an ally and has signalled his intention to eventually step aside so Anwar, his deputy prime minister in the 1990s, can take over.

Police search scandal-tainted ex-Malaysia PM's home

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