MP SPEAKS | It is shocking that the police are still awaiting orders to reopen the probe into the death of former DAP political aide Teoh Beng Hock, as revealed by Home Minister Muhyiddin Yassin in Parliament yesterday.

The failure of the police to ascertain Teoh’s death and those responsible for it is a blatant sign of incompetence on its part having regard to the fact that there was ample evidence of foul play surrounding the events that led to his death at the MACC building where his body was found.

In this regard, it is useful to quote what was said by Mohammad Ariff Md Yusof (now Speaker of Parliament) when delivering judgment in the Court of Appeal on the matter:

“Death of Teoh Beng Hock was caused by multiple injuries from a fall from the 14th Floor of Plaza Masalam as a result of, or which was accelerated by, an unlawful act, or act of person or persons unknown, inclusive of MACC officers who were involved in the arrest and investigation of the deceased.”

The learned judge went on to say,

“The interest of the family members and the public interest require that the case be further investigated by the police authorities.”

Aren’t the said remarks of the Court of Appeal above, having been apprised of all the evidence surrounding Teoh’s death, sufficient to warrant reopening investigations into Teoh’s case?

With the greatest of respect, there can be no doubt that Teoh’s death came about as a result of foul play.

Why is it so difficult for the authorities to charge those involved? Surely the identities of Teoh’s investigators and those present at the said MACC building that night are known. Why such incompetence on the part of the police in charging those responsible for his death?

In the circumstances, it is hard to believe Muhyiddin’s statement that the police is still awaiting orders to reopen Teoh’s case.

How much longer do we need to wait for such orders to come?

It is disgraceful that the police have not resolved such a straightforward case which makes one wonder if this is a question of incompetence on its part or a cover up instead.

In light of the above, I am strongly of the view that a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) ought to be set up to get to the bottom of the matter.

If the police force is so hopeless, perhaps it’s best we find answers in other more effective ways.

RAMKARPAL SINGH is the MP for Bukit Gelugor and DAP National Legal Bureau chairperson.

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