White & Case LLP said it was unaware of any criminal investigation into the firm and that it “strenuously” denied any allegations of criminality regarding this matter.

“We strongly refute any suggestion that White & Case acted in any way inconsistent with the highest ethical and professional standards,” it said, according to a report by London-based The Observer.

“We are vigorously defending our firm against the allegations in the complaint, and we are confident that we will be vindicated.”

The firm’s denial comes after MACC chief Azam Baki reportedly said on April 2 that the anti-graft agency had completed its investigation into alleged links to the misappropriation of 1MDB funds, recommending charges against several individuals.

Azam said the investigation covered the preparation of documents suspected to contain false information, as well as misleading payment instructions that allegedly facilitated the disbursement of 1MDB-linked funds to unauthorised parties.

He said the investigation conducted under the MACC Act 2009 and the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 also examined payments made to White & Case.

Azam said international cooperation is ongoing, including requests through the Attorney-General’s Chambers and Mutual Legal Assistance channels with UK authorities, to strengthen the case.

White & Case is facing an ongoing lawsuit filed by 1MDB in 2024, seeking US$1.83 billion and US$33 million in losses from White & Case, and Patrick Mahony, a director of PetroSaudi International Ltd.

The fund alleges that White & Case assisted PetroSaudi in committing fraud and conspired to harm 1MDB while acting as its legal counsel.

The alleged misconduct relates to two corporate transactions – the 2009 joint venture with PetroSaudi International and the 2010 restructuring of 1MDB’s stake in the joint venture – both of which 1MDB claims resulted in significant financial losses.