Amber Phillips
In a case that has captivated Malaysia for years, the family of murdered Mongolian model Altantuya Shaariibuu is calling for urgent action to ensure justice is served. Altantuya’s family insists that justice demands the return of former police commando Sirul Azhar Umar from Australia, where he has remained since fleeing the country following her brutal murder in 2006.
Calls for Extradition Intensify
The recent commutation of Azilah Hadri’s death sentence has reignited discussions surrounding the tragic case. Sangeet Kaur Deo, the lawyer representing Altantuya’s family, stated, “The attorney general has no excuse for further delay.” The family is now pressing the AG to take the necessary steps to extradite Sirul back to Malaysia, where he could face consequences for his actions.
They argue that changes in Malaysian law, which now enable murder convicts to seek reduced sentences, highlight the urgency of the situation.
- Key Points from Altantuya’s Family:
– Extradite Sirul from Australia for justice.
– AG should provide updates on extradition efforts.
- Recent law changes make the death penalty non-mandatory for murder.
Unrebutted Claims Raise Concerns
A significant factor in the family’s renewed campaign is an additional affidavit submitted by Azilah, who was convicted alongside Sirul in the murder case. In a recent Federal Court review, Azilah alleged that he acted under the instruction of then Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and his aide de camp, DSP Musa Safri. These claims have not been challenged by the public prosecutor, raising questions about accountability and justice.
Sangeet highlighted that the AG has a duty to investigate any leads in the case, regardless of the individuals’ status or influence. “The AG must impartially hold all individuals accountable,” she said.
Background to the Case
Altantuya Shaariibuu was brutally murdered in 2006. Her body was later found in a former military area near Kuala Lumpur, sparking national and international outrage. In 2015, the Federal Court reinstated the death sentences for both Sirul and Azilah after a lengthy legal battle. However, Sirul went missing on the day of the verdict, later emerging in Australia, where he remains protected by laws preventing his extradition due to the possibility of facing the death penalty.
- Timeline of Major Events:
– 2006: Altantuya Shaariibuu is murdered.
– 2015: Federal Court reinstates death sentences for Azilah and Sirul.
– 2019: Sirul resides in Australia, avoiding extradition.
– 2023: Azilah’s death sentence commuted to 40 years and caning.
Legal Changes Provide New Hope
In 2022, Malaysia amended its laws to allow murder convicts to apply for a change in their sentences. As a result, only Azilah sought to have his death penalty commuted, while Sirul did not file any such application. This shift provides a path for both former commandoes to escape capital punishment, although the family of Altantuya insists that this does not absolve them of their crimes.
The family believes that the focus must return to the accountability of those who orchestrated the crime.
Public Reaction and Political Implications
Public sentiment remains mixed, with many Malaysians calling for justice to be served. Critics argue that the investigation into Altantuya’s murder has been stalled for too long, while supporters emphasize the importance of due process. A prominent voice in these discussions is former Deputy Prime Minister Najib Razak, who has vehemently denied any involvement in the case.
- Public Concerns:
– Calls for fair treatment and accountability in high-profile cases.
– Skepticism about the judicial process in handling political figures.
– Pleas for transparency from the attorney general’s office.
Next Steps for Altantuya’s Family
The family continues to advocate for transparency and justice. Sangeet Kaur Deo reiterated the need for the AG to act and ensure that the truth emerges through thorough investigation. “As guardians of the rule of law, the authorities must pursue every lead,” she added, emphasizing that public faith in the judicial system is at stake.
As the legal battle unfolds, the family remains hopeful for a time when justice prevails for Altantuya, whose case remains a painful reminder of unresolved issues in Malaysian society.
Conclusion
The call to bring Sirul Azhar Umar back to Malaysia is not just about justice for Altantuya Shaariibuu; it’s about restoring public trust in a legal system that must be seen as impartial and fair. As legal avenues shift and evolve, only time will reveal whether the AG will act decisively, allowing overdue accountability in this high-profile case. The outcome remains critical—not just for Altantuya’s family but for a nation yearning for justice
