Yesterday, The Malaysian Insight reported that Low, better known as Jho Low, is believed to have been shuttling between countries like Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and other parts of the Middle East, as well as Europe, since June.

The flamboyant businessman, who is at the centre of the 1MDB scandal, is said to have “close relations with members of the royal families” in the Middle East.

Citing sources, the portal reported that Low was offered asylum in August under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and European Convention on Human Rights.

But Bernama quoted Inspector-General of Police Abdul Hamid Bador today as saying it was “illogical and impossible” for an individual like Low, who is wanted for the “crime of the century”, to enter the UAE so easily.

Hamid said that the UAE has a very tight security system at its airport and the police over there work very closely with their counterparts here.

“I don’t know who came up with such a story, but I would be interested in meeting them,” the news agency quoted him as saying.

“I wish to state that we are aware of Jho Low’s whereabouts but some people are protecting him. Just give me some time.

“I will not stop efforts in tracking down and bringing back this criminal.

“If he is not a criminal or has been framed, there is no need to panic, please come home. I will ensure he is dealt with according to the law,” he said.

In September, police said they knew where Low was and hoped to bring him back by the end of the year to help in investigations into the multi-billion dollar scandal.