Plot twist! The Malaysian High Court heard yesterday that one of the North Korean suspects, Ri Ji U, known by his code name “James,” might still be in the country.
What the wha?!
Investigating officers from Sepang district police headquarters have testified that Ji U was not on a list of nine named suspects involved with the case that was provided to them by KLIA Immigration Department.
That list included the two women currently being tried, Siti Aisyah and Doan Thi Huong, as well as North Koreans Hong Song Hak, Ri Ji Hyon, Ri Jae Nam, O Jong Gil, Kim Uk-Il, Hyong Kwang Song, and Ri Jong Chol.
Cross-examination via the defense also clarified that Jong Gil, who had been previously identified as “James,” was mistakenly identified. Ji Yu was, in fact, the so-called James.
Court proceedings revealed that police were not able to ascertain whether Ji Yu had left the country on Jan. 17, outbound to Phnom Penh, nor whether he had returned to KL four days later.
Siti Aisyah’s mobile phone contained a single image of Ji Yu, taken by her at KLCC prior to the incident.
Still maybe in the country, you say? Where’s a North Korean, potential agent embroiled in the 21st century’s wildest story of espionage and airport assassination to go?
Our guess? If he’s not hiding in a reinforced closet at the North Korean Embassy, check the malls. If he’s not in a mall, then maybe Genting or Legoland. If you’ve checked those, and still can’t find him – then he’s not here, guys.
