Beng Hock's sister hunts down ministers

As federal ministers and their entourage flood the small town of Galas for the by-election campaign, a group fighting for justice for the death of political secretary Teoh Beng Hock and other death-in-custody victims has hit town hot in pursuit.

Leading the hunt for the ministers is activist Ng Yap Hwa, head of the group calling itself ‘Malaysians for Beng Hock’, an eight member delegation that includes Teoh Lee Lan, sister to the deceased.

"We are here to hand over a memo to the ministers for their signatures. We want them to sign the memo to support our search for justice for Beng Hock," said Ng.

In addition to Teoh, who was found dead after interrogation by the Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission, they are also pushing for justice for all those who have died in detention or custody.

Asked why they have come to Galas during the by-election, Ng explained that a by-election is the most convenient place to find the ministers.

"Normally we won't see the ministers around, but they are all here now during the by-election," he said.

The group’s memo wants action on push through three areas:

 

• The enactment of a Human Rights Act to safeguard the rights and safety of Malaysians,

• The Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission ( IPCMC ) to be instituted to investigate alleged police abuses of power,

• A royal commission for Teoh, as well as for fellow death-in-custody victim R Gunasegaran whose inquest recently concluded without a clear verdict.

When quizzed if they are politicising the issue, Lee Lan ( right ) said, "Isn't it the duty of politicians to look after the human rights of citizens?"

The group headed earlier this afternoon to Gua Musang Old Town when they heard that Tourism Minister Ng Yen Yen was at a function in nearby Pulai. They immediately made a beeline for her but failed to get there in time before the minister departed.

They are now hunting for Senator Heng Seai Kie who is scheduled to attend a function in Gua Musang Old Town.