The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) has urged the government to review the detention earlier this month, of seven immigration officers and two foreigners suspected of human trafficking, under the Internal Security Act (ISA).

NONE Its chairperson Hasmy Agam ( right ) said in a statement today that this clearly violated the suspects’ human rights, and was unnecessary as the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2007 is already in place to deal with such cases.

“Suhakam is concerned about the use of detention without trial, and suggest instead that all detainees are tried in court to ensure that their rights are upheld,” said Hasmy.

He added that the applying due process through the courts would ensure better overall crime prevention.

On Oct 13 inspector-general of police Ismail Omar announced that the nine suspects have been detained under the ISA.

Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein announced the next day that the detained officers “had been monitored for some time by the police. Their involvement with the heads of the syndicates is most dangerous and a serious matter.”

Human rights NGO Suaram had at the time blasted the use of the draconian ISA against the suspects saying, "Their arrest under ISA reflects lack of professionalism in the police force. It goes to show that they are unable to conduct a proper investigation."