KUALA LUMPUR (June 24): Controversy-surrounded PetroSaudi International (PSI) has “welcomed” the arrest of a former employee who had leaked information connected to troubled 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB).

PSI’s former IT executive Xavier Justo was arrested at his home in Thailand by the Crime Suppression Division of the Royal Thai Police yesterday, with charges of attempted blackmail and extortion against PetroSaudi.

In a statement today, the Saudi-based oil and gas company said it is mulling whether to pursue further legal action in other jurisdictions amid ongoing investigation, whilst giving its full cooperation to the authorities in Thailand.

“We are relieved that Mr Justo will now face justice through the courts. We have been the victims of a regrettable crime that has unfortunately been politicised in Malaysia.

“We are happy that the courts will now address this matter, and we apologise to the Malaysian people for the harm caused to them,” a spokesperson for PetroSaudi said.

News emerged late yesterday highlighting Justo’s arrest by Thai police as numerous computers, hard drives and other evidence were seized pursuant to a court ordered search warrant.

PetroSaudi is a partner of 1MDB, the Malaysian strategic investor which has racked up debts of RM42 billion, and is now being restructured into three companies as part of a rationalisation effort to get rid of its debts.