Online death threats against lawyer have chilling effect on legal system

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Bar has condemned and expressed deep concern over death threats made against a lawyer representing the families of three men who were fatally shot in Durian Tunggal, Melaka.

Its president Ezri Abdul Wahab said threatening a legal practitioner for fulfilling their professional obligations strikes at the very heart of the administration of justice.

“It has a chilling effect that undermines public confidence in the legal system,” he said in a statement.

Ezri said lawyers, by virtue of their role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring access to justice, must be able to perform their professional duties without fear of intimidation, harassment or threats to their personal safety.

“Thus, it is necessary to protect the legal profession and its members, as well as the public, from dangerous and sinister conduct.”

Previously, lawyer Rajesh Nagarajan, who is representing the families of three men shot dead by police in Durian Tunggal, Melaka, received death threats on social media.

He had since lodged a police report, with the case being investigated under Section 507 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

On Dec 15, Selangor police chief Datuk Shazeli Kahar said police are awaiting a report from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to identify the profile of an individual who allegedly posted the death threats on social media.

Ezri said the Bar acknowledged the efforts of the police and the MCMC in progressing the investigation, including recording statements and seeking technical assistance to trace the source of the threats.

“The Malaysian Bar urges all relevant authorities to ensure that this matter is handled expeditiously, thoroughly and with full transparency, in accordance with the rule of law and due process.

“We also call on the public to refrain from engaging in or endorsing threatening or abusive conduct against lawyers, judges, court staff or any other participants in the justice system.”

Ezri said the Bar stands ready to support efforts to protect the safety and independence of legal professionals and to work collaboratively with authorities and stakeholders in promoting an environment that is safe, respectful and conducive to the proper functioning of the justice system.

Previously, Melaka police chief Datuk Dzulkhairi Mukhtar said the three suspects, known as the “DT Gang”, were shot dead after attacking a corporal who attempted to stop them at about 4am on Nov 24.

On Dec 3, the families of the three men called on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to intervene and convene an urgent meeting with the Home Ministry, asserting that the incident warranted a Royal Commission of Inquiry.

© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd

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