Rosmah Mansor, the wife of Malaysia’s former Prime Minister Najib Razak, faced a setback in her legal battle over missing jewelry as the High Court dismissed her attempt to involve the police and government in a $14.57 million lawsuit.
Justice Ong Chee Kwan ruled against Rosmah’s bid, stating that neither the police nor the government were liable to compensate her. He noted that Rosmah could pursue a separate civil lawsuit if she believed the authorities were responsible for any losses related to the jewelry.
Rosmah’s lawyer, Reza Rahim, expressed disappointment over the court’s decision, stating that they intended to appeal.
In the lawsuit filed by Global Royalty Trading SAL, Rosmah was accused of falsely claiming that 44 pieces of jewelry, including diamond necklaces and earrings, sent by the company were seized by Malaysian authorities under money laundering laws. The company asserted that only one piece was seized, while the rest were unaccounted for.
Rosmah contended that if any jewelry was lost, it was the responsibility of the police or government, claiming that the items were always in their possession.
The legal proceedings will continue with a full trial scheduled for June 2.
Global Royalty Trading SAL initially sued Rosmah in 2018, seeking the return of the jewelry or payment for their value, but withdrew the lawsuit in 2019 before refiling it in 2024.