Police cordon off Najib’s Jalan Langgak Duta residence amid speculation of possible return

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 6 — Police have increased security measures around Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s residence in Jalan Langgak Duta this morning, as rumors circulate that the former prime minister might return to serve the rest of his prison sentence under house arrest. According to Berita Harian, it is believed that Najib could be granted permission to return to his home after fulfilling the necessary payment.

Assistant Commissioner Anuar Bakri Abdul Salam and his deputy arrived at the residential area at 10:45am, just after a team of officers and personnel from the district police headquarters arrived at 10:30am. The police officers stationed at the scene instructed media personnel to maintain a safe distance from the house, allowing coverage only from the junction leading into the residential area.

Anuar Bakri informed reporters that they are making preparations for control and surveillance around the entrance to Najib’s residence starting this morning, but no precise information has been received yet. Currently, nearly 30 police personnel and several vehicles are on standby to monitor the area. Officers have laid police tape to prevent unauthorized individuals from approaching Najib’s home.

Reports suggest that Najib is anticipated to return to his residence after Friday prayers this afternoon. The high presence of senior Sentul district police officers at the location implies that Najib may be released today. Najib, who is 73 years old, has been incarcerated at Kajang Prison since August 23, 2022, following the Federal Court's confirmation of his conviction for misappropriating RM42 million from SRC International Sdn Bhd.

His initial sentence was 12 years in prison and a RM210 million fine, but the Federal Territories Pardons Board reduced the sentence to six years and RM50 million in January 2024. Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, granted Najib a conditional pardon on September 18, allowing him to complete his sentence under house arrest until August 23, 2028, as long as the fine and other conditions are met.