IN a dramatic turn of events today,  the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) decided to cease a public inquiry into missing pastor Raymond Koh after it was learnt that police had charged a suspect in connection with Koh’s disappearance.

Suhakam was told that police had charged a suspect with kidnapping and that the matter was now in court.

Suhakam chief commissioner Mah Weng Kwai said he was informed of it late yesterday.

“Suhakam received a letter yesterday at 3pm stating the police had apprehended a suspect in Koh’s case on January 12.

“We were all ready to resume the inquiry today. However, we were informed at the last minute to cease,” he said.

Mah next notified the lawyers representing Koh’s family and the Bar Council, following which the group adjourned to the Suhakam office for discussion. After about 20 minutes, Mah emerged to announce that the inquiry was suspended.

Mah said Suhakam would continue with the inquiry into the disappearance of Amri Che Mat and Pastor Joshua and Ruth Hilmy.

“We will continue with their cases when the inquiry resumes,” he said.

The Suhakam panel aims to determine whether Koh’s abduction, as well as the disappearance of the three others in 2016, are cases of enforced disappearances sanctioned by the state.

Mah and two more Suhakam commissioners, Aishah Bidin and Dr Nik Salida Suhaila Nik Saleha, make up the panel of inquiry. – January 16, 2018.