Amber Phillips
Malaysian authorities are urgently seeking the help of Interpol to locate an American couple in connection with the mysterious death of Dutch model Ivana Smit. The 18-year-old model died in Kuala Lumpur on December 7, 2017, after reportedly falling from the couple’s 20th-floor apartment. As the case has remained unresolved for years, the issuance of the Blue Notice is a significant step in reinvigorating the investigation.
Details Surrounding Ivana Smit’s Death
Ivana Smit was found dead after a night out in Kuala Lumpur. Initially, authorities from Malaysia’s police force ruled her death as an accidental fall. Smit’s body was discovered on a sixth-floor balcony, far below the couple’s apartment. However, the circumstances surrounding her death have raised questions.
Key points include:
- Two pathologists originally concluded that Smit fell accidentally.
- An independent autopsy conducted in the Netherlands revealed injuries that were inconsistent with a fall.
- One local pathologist later retracted their statement, and the other admitted they had not examined her body immediately after the incident.
Complications in the investigation also arose when police allowed the Johnsons to clean their apartment, which may have compromised crucial evidence from the scene.
Legal Progress and Challenges
In 2019, a Malaysian court made a pivotal ruling, stating that Smit could have been murdered, and initiated a murder investigation. Since then, however, little progress has been made. Sébas Diekstra, a lawyer for Smit’s family, has spoken out about the lack of action from the Malaysian government.
Diekstra emphasized:
- The family is pursuing a lawsuit against the Malaysian government to compel a renewed investigation.
- They argue that the government “failed to fulfill its legal duties.”
- An attempt at mediation with Malaysian authorities for an out-of-court settlement was unsuccessful.
The ongoing legal battle highlights the family’s frustration with the lack of accountability in the investigation.
What is an Interpol Blue Notice?
A Blue Notice is a formal request issued by Interpol to gather additional information about a person’s identity, location, or activities. The issuance of this notice signifies a serious intent to move forward with the investigation by tracking down Kirsten Smit’s former companions, who were last known to be living in the United States.
The Couple At The Center of the Investigation
The couple sought by Malaysian authorities, Alexander William Johnson, 51, and Lunara Almazkyzy, 37, have been linked to Smit’s death since the initial investigation. As a cryptocurrency trader, Johnson is known for his wealth and connections, but the ramifications of this case have put his name in a troubling light.
The details of their relationship with Smit during her last night raise further questions. Authorities hope that the Blue Notice will shed light on their whereabouts and prompt cooperation in the investigation.
International Implications
The involvement of Interpol indicates the international dimensions of this case, as Smit was a Dutch citizen who died in Malaysia. The case not only impacts the Johnsons but also raises broader concerns about safety and accountability for tourists and expatriates in Malaysia.
- International cooperation is vital for thorough investigations.
- The Malaysian police’s steps to engage Interpol reflect their commitment to uncover the truth behind Smit’s tragic death.
Moreover, the case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in cross-border investigations, especially when fatalities are involved.
Conclusion: A Call for Justice
As the search for answers continues, the family of Ivana Smit remains steadfast in their pursuit of justice. The issuance of the Interpol Blue Notice might offer a glimmer of hope for resolution after years of frustration and uncertainty. With ongoing legal actions and the need for accountability becoming more pronounced, the eyes of the international community will be on Malaysia as the investigation develops.
The case exemplifies not only a personal tragedy but also highlights systemic issues concerning transparency and justice in international dealings. For many, it remains a critical reflection on the duty to ensure safety and accountability, regardless of nationality. The outcome of this investigation could set important precedents for how similar cases are handled in the future
