The Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) has called on the government to investigate if the police were behind the12-hour abduction of Burmese journalist Ko Minn Kyaw Minn in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday.

In a press statement today, CIJ said although the police denied any involvement, the government and the special commission formed to probe police abuses, should look into the matter.

"While the abduction and intimidation of any person is abhorrent, the repercussions of these tactics against journalists are far-reaching.

"Silencing journalists, intimidating them into blocking the channels of communication further intensifies the isolation and vulnerability of already vulnerable groups," it added.

Min Kyaw was on his way to the airport with his Malaysian wife Yassra Sharil to cover the arrival of Burmese premier Khun Nyint when the abduction took place.

As the couple were driving along the New Klang Valley Expressway at about 9.30am, two vehicles forced them off the road.

Several identified men then handcuffed and dragged Min Kyaw into a white Proton Wira, where he was later hooded.

Assaulted and quizzed

The 26-year-old activist said he was assaulted by the men and quizzed on his activities. He was later released in Kajang at about 10pm.

Following his abduction, his wife, who lodged a police report on the matter, claimed that Minn Kyaw could have been abducted by Special Branch personnel.

Meanwhile, CIJ noted that the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has awarded Minn Kyaw refugee status.

The centre also supports Minn Kyaw in his attempt to seek assistance from both the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) and UNHCR.

This morning, Minn Kyaw met with Suhakam commissioner Prof Hamdan Adnan, who said that the commission will probe the matter.