Mongolian's murder trial begins today

The Straits Times, June 4, 2007


ONE of the biggest and most talked-about trials in recent Malaysian history starts today in Shah Alam High Court 3 in Selangor.

The 25-day trial revolves around the murder of Mongolian translator Altantuya Shaariibuu, 28, who was shot dead last October and then had her body blown to bits with explosives in a Shah Alam forest.

Two policemen are accused of the murder and prominent Malaysian political analyst Abdul Razak Baginda, 46, who has been charged with abetting the two, will be standing trial. All three have pleaded not guilty. If convicted, they will face the death penalty.

The trial made headlines around the world because of the gruesome way in which the victim was killed and because top political names are allegedly linked in the plot to kill her.

Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has been dragged into the case because Razak was a close associate of his.


HAZLIN HASSAN