Malaysia releases 11 Hindraf members

Putrajaya, Oct 28: Eleven members of the banned Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf), who were arrested under the Societies Act after they held an illegal gathering outside the Prime Minister's office on Thursday, Oct 23 have been released. Their release papers were signed at noon on Sunday, Oct 26 by Kajang magistrate's court registrar Bonney Empoh, The NST Online reported. Puchong Member of Parliament Gobind Singh Deo said they were released on 1,000-ringgit police bail each and would have to report to the police station in a month's time.

"We were told that police were still investigating their cases before forwarding their recommendations to the Attorney-General's Chambers."

A police spokesman said all of them were freed so that they could celebrate Deepavali.

"Although the police could extend their remand orders to facilitate investigations, yet on humanitarian grounds, they were released so they can celebrate the festival."

About 100 family members and supporters of Hindraf were outside the police station as early as 9.30 a.m. on Sunday but there was no untoward incident.

Meanwhile, there was no extra security at the MIC Deepavali open house here yesterday.

Asked if there had been any worries about Hindraf supporters turning up, MIC President S Samy Vellu said no, adding that the event had gone on well.

ANI