Did the arrest aim to prevent questions about 1MDB, despite denials?

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The Arrest of Australian Journalists and the Question of Intent Regarding 1MDB Inquiries

The arrest of Australian journalists Linton Besser and Louie Eroglu in Kuching has sparked debate regarding the government's intent, with a federal lawmaker suggesting the action was aimed at preventing questions about 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), despite official denials. While Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated the arrests were for the Prime Minister's security, Batu Kawan MP Kasthuri Patto argued that the authorities' actions created the impression of stifling journalistic inquiry. The two journalists, who were later deported rather than charged, had reportedly attempted to approach Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak to ask about the 1MDB controversy.
Lawmaker's View on Media Freedom and Inquiry

DAP federal lawmaker Kasthuri Patto welcomed the decision not to press charges against the Australian newsmen but asserted that their initial arrest constituted harassment against media freedom. Patto highlighted the perceived inconsistency of the authorities' actions, noting that the Prime Minister frequently engages with the public, even taking "selfies" with supporters during official events. She questioned why approaching the Prime Minister to inquire about 1MDB would be deemed an offence under such circumstances, suggesting that the authorities' response implied an intent to shield the Prime Minister from such questions.
Official Justification for the Arrest

The official reason provided for the arrest of Besser and Eroglu centred on security protocols. Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi explicitly denied that the move was intended to prevent the journalists from posing questions. Instead, he maintained that the actions were taken to ensure the personal security of Prime Minister Najib Razak. The journalists were reportedly arrested in Kuching after allegedly approaching the Prime Minister in an "aggressive" manner and crossing a security line, which they denied.
Outcome for the Journalists

Ultimately, Linton Besser and Louie Eroglu, members of the ABC News team, were not subjected to legal charges in Malaysia. Following their arrest, initial reports suggested they might face charges. However, Sarawak police later confirmed that the journalists would be deported. Both Besser and Eroglu subsequently departed Malaysia on a flight to Singapore, concluding the incident without formal prosecution.

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Did the arrest aim to prevent questions about 1MDB, despite denials?

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