The Australian Immigration and Border Protection Department has confirmed that Sirul Azhar Umar is still under detention, contrary to news reports that he has been released.

"This individual remains in immigration detention. We are unable to provide any further information," a department spokesperson said in an email to Malaysiakini .

Earlier today local newspapers Berita Harian and New Straits Times, quoting an unnamed official from Wisma Putra, reported that Australian authorities had allowed Sirul to be released on condition.

The murder convict, the dailies added, was free to move about, but under close supervision.

"At the present time, he has been released but his passport has been seized by the Australian authorities and given a conditional card stating that he is free to move around.

"Sirul must be present if called by the authorities at any time," the dailies quoted the official saying.

The 43-year-old ex-police commando and another former police officer, Azilah Hadri, were convicted of murdering Mongolian national Altantuya Shaariibuu.

On Jan 13, the Federal Court overturned their acquittal and sentenced Azilah and Sirul to death.

However, Sirul was not present as he was said to have left the country soon after the Court of Appeal acquitted him.

According to Berita Harian and New Straits Times , the Wisma Putra official further said that Malaysia and Australia are still negotiating Sirul's extradition.

Australian law dictates that a person facing the death penalty in his or her home country cannot be extradited.