PSM sec-gen released today after remand application rejected

Socialist Party of Malaysia (PSM) secretary-general S. Arutchelvan will be released from police custody from the Dang Wangi police station before 7pm today, after his remand application was rejected by the Magistrate's Court.

Arutchelvan, also known as Arul, would be freed from following a remand hearing earlier this morning. He is expected to appear in court on Monday.

Arul's lawyer, Latheefa Koya, said Arul's merciless arrest was done beyond reasonable doubt.

Datuk S. Ambiga, who was also one of Arul's lawyers present at the police station, said the ill practice of arresting people for sedition and holding them up for remand should stop.

Arul

Arul's supporters in a show of solidarity for the PSM sec-gen at the Dang Wangi Police Station in city centre. - Astro AWANI/Kamarul Ariffin

Arul was arrested at his residence in Kajang, Selangor to assist investigation over his remarks on the Internet on Anwar's second sodomy conviction on February 10.

In the PSM website, Arul had criticised the Federal Court's judgment, citing the court was not independent and politically-driven.

Last week, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar had said Arul would be investigated for his 'seditious' statement.

At the Dang Wangi police station, supporters gathered to show support Arul, carrying placards boasting 'Repeal Sedition Act' and 'Bebas Arul' (Free Arul) and 'Kita Lawan' (We Fight).

Arul was arrested under Section 4 (1)(c) of the Sedition Act for reproducing, printing and publishing any seditious material.