KOTA BARU: The Attorney-General’s Chambers (A-GC) is mulling whether there is a need to provide protection for witnesses throughout the inquest proceedings involving the late Zara Qairina Mahathir.
This follows a case in which forensic pathologist Dr Jessie Hiu, one of the 68
witnesses in the inquest, received threats.
Attorney-General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar said the A-GC would review the matter thoroughly before making any decision.
However, Dusuki noted there was currently no pressing need for such measures.
“At this stage, I do not see the necessity. But if circumstances change and protection becomes necessary, we will proceed accordingly,” he told reporters after launching Sekolah Angkat Malaysia Madani by the A-GC at SK Long Gaffar here today.
Dusuki stressed that would take firm action against any party making threats against witnesses involved in the inquest proceedings.
Any form of threat, such as the one made against pathologist Dr Hiu, should never have happened.
“We take such acts seriously, and I have been informed that the individual concerned was detained early this morning under Section 507 of the Penal Code.
“I remind all parties that firm action will be taken against anyone attempting to interfere with the judicial process or threaten witnesses.
“Dr Jessie Hiu’s testimony is crucial to the inquest proceedings in order to reach a decision that ensures justice for all parties.
“Therefore, any form of intimidation or negative action that could endanger the lives of witnesses, including the pathologist concerned, must not be taken lightly,” he said.
Dusuki expressed hope that the investigation into the individual who made the threats, and who was arrested earlier this morning, would be expedited.
“I also advise all parties to be patient, as the inquest proceedings have only just begun. What we are doing is seeking justice for all parties, including the family and the victim.
“So I urge everyone to respect the judicial process and allow it to proceed in order to uncover the truth,” he said.
At the same time, he expressed confidence that the incident involving Dr Hiu would not weaken her spirit or affect her determination in the case, given her experience.
Asked on the possibility of holding the inquest proceedings behind closed doors to protect witnesses, Dusuki said the matter would be reviewed if necessary.
“I cannot comment at this stage as it is still too early, and we need to first assess whether there is a need.
“If there is a need, we will study it. However, I want to stress that the process of justice should be allowed to proceed in order to seek the truth for all parties,” he said.
It was reported that Dr Hui had lodged a police report over threats she had received from netizens, believed to be in response to her two days of testimony at the inquest.
The matter was confirmed by Kota Kinabalu police chief Assistant Commissioner Kasim Muda, who said the suspect who made the threats was detained early this morning.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
