The Gerik Magistrate Court has issued a two-day remand order for three Temiar Orang Asli villagers arrested in Kampung Sungai Papan, Gerik yesterday.
Police had detained Johari Aleuj, Pam Yeek and Shukri Man after they prevented a blockade constructed by villagers from being brought down by the police, loggers and Forestry Department personnel.
Representing the trio this morning was lawyer G Thiyagu, who told Malaysiakini that Investigating Officer M Murugaraju had initially made an application for a four-day remand.
“After listening to arguments from the defence, Magistrate Norhidayati Mohammad Nasroh ordered the three Orang Asli to be remanded for two days in which (sic) they will be released tomorrow,” he said when contacted.
Thiyagu contended that the Orang Asli believed they had the right to defend their customary land.
“Don't set this as a precedent as many Orang Asli people are fighting for their customary land from state authorities.
“In my personal opinion, this is a minor offence [...] in which I am of the view that they no need to remand the Orang Asli.
“They can even be released on police bail and I am sure that the Orang Asli will cooperate with the police for investigation purposes,” he said.
[More to follow] - Mkini
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