Police said they are looking for an “important witness” as part of their investigation into the disappearance of Perlis social activist Amri Che Mat.
They are seeking Saiful Bahari, 41, reportedly a civilian employee in the police force who has resigned from his job, police said in a statement.
Saiful claimed he had witnessed the abduction of Amri, the co-founder of civil society organisation Perlis Hope, on November 24, 2016.
The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) in its April inquiry into Amri’s disappearance said he is a victim of enforced disappearance, pointing to Special Branch’s involvement.
Appealing to the public for assistance, Mior Faridalathrash Wahid, the principal assistant director of prosecution and law at Bukit Aman’s criminal investigation division, said any person with information about Saiful or knows him should contact Inspector Wan Ahmad Zakiman Wan at 03-22666071 or 013-7117025 or go to the nearest police station.
Amri’s wife said five vehicles blocked his car before he was snatched in the incident that took place some 500 metres from their Bukit Chabang home in Perlis.
According to the Suhakam inquiry, Saiful’s car was seen near the spot where Amri was abducted.
When Saiful failed to testify at the inquiry, it prompted Suhakam to accuse the police of withholding cooperation.