Reopened Investigation into the 2006 Murder of Altantuya Shaariibuu
Police in Malaysia are reopening the case that killed Altantuya Shaariibuu, a young Mongolian woman, in 2006. The murder, which involved a fatal gunshot and an explosive blast near Kuala Lumpur, was previously tied to the former Prime Minister, Najib Razak.
Background
- Altantuya was shot and her body was detonated with military‑grade plastic explosives.
- The murder surfaced during an investigation that also uncovered alleged kickbacks tied to a 2002 deal for French submarines.
- Najib, who was defence minister during that deal, and his wife, Rosmah Mansor, have always denied any involvement.
- Two bodyguards were convicted and sentenced to death; one, Sirul Azhar Umar, escaped to Australia and remains in custody there.
- Umar claims he was ordered by “important people” to carry out the killing.
Recent Developments
Altantuya’s father flew to Malaysia this week. He met the new Prime Minister, Mahathir Mohamad, who pledged to reopen the investigation and filed a fresh police report.
Mohamad Fuzi Harun, the national police chief, said: “We are reopening investigations. We will carry out our duties without fear or favour.”
Human‑rights group Lawyers for Liberty has urged the police to interview Najib as a potential witness. Eric Paulsen stated: “We want to know why Altantuya was killed and who ordered her killing.”
Political Context
Last month, Malaysia’s electorate ended the six‑decade rule of Najib’s coalition, electing a reformist alliance led by the 92‑year‑old Mahathir. Earlier investigations had cleared Abdul Razak Baginda—Najib’s associate and Altantuya’s alleged lover—from any role in the murder. Saferus’ father’s involvement underscores the personal stake in reopening the case.
Potential Breakthrough
Sirul Azhar Umar has expressed willingness to cooperate with the new investigation, offering a chance at a significant breakthrough in resolving this long‑mystery.
