A statement today from the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur said discussions had been held between the two governments to clarify the situation.
“However, as stated by Malaysian Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad, Malaysia has not lodged an extradition request with Australia for Sirul. “Australia looks forward to continuing and strengthening our productive and longstanding law enforcement cooperation with the Government of Malaysia,” the statement said.
The UK newspaper The Guardian in an exclusive report today said an extradition request was expected with the possibility of a fresh trial for Sirul, who was convicted with fellow police officer Azila Hadri for the murder of Mongolian woman Altantuya Shaariibuu in 2006.
Sirul is being held in an immigration detention centre in Sydney after he fled to Australia shortly before his conviction and death penalty was confirmed.
Earlier today Mahathir denied that the government had requested Sirul’s extradition. “No, we have not made any discussions yet with the Australian government. I am getting this from you (reporters) for the first time,” he said.
However, Mahathir said the government would look into having Sirul’s death sentence reduced to life imprisonment. Australia would be unlikely to agree to extradition in view of the death penalty.
Mahathir also said that the government would be looking into reopening the 2006 murder case.
Altantuya Shaariibuu’s father Setev Shaariibuu was expected to visit Malaysia in a few weeks’ time and arrangements were being made for him to meet Dr Mahathir, according to his lawyer, Ramkarpal Singh, who said he hoped for a royal commission of inquiry or for investigations to be reopened.
Sirul rejects life sentence offer, says did not kill Altantuya