Suara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram) said it was unfortunate that such practices were happening in the “New Malaysia”.

“And if Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin cannot resolve this long-standing problem, we suggest that he resign and give others a chance to carry out the duties of a minister,” its executive director Sevan Doraisamy said in a statement.

Earlier today, Malaysiakini reported that five out of the 12 charged with supporting the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) complained of mistreatment, torture and intimidation while in custody.

One claimed he was forced to admit he was an LTTE member and was threatened with life imprisonment if he did not comply with police orders.

According to the portal, a lawyer for another suspect said her client was kept in a separate dark cell and this did not comply with lock-up regulations.

Sevan went on to call for a probe into the allegations and urged for immediate action to be taken if it is proven to be true.

He also reminded Putrajaya that it was voted in by the people to undo the mess by the previous administration, including reforming laws and repealing draconian ones like the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012.

“We are prepared to mobilise the people to take to the streets if the Pakatan Harapan government fails to fulfil its promises,” he added.