'Nothing to do with Kula': Lawyer on why Zamri handcuffed but not Arun

Malaysiakini : A lawyer has come forward to explain the possible reasons why independent preacher Zamri Vinoth was taken to court in handcuffs yesterday, while activist Arun Dorasamy was not.

This followed a controversy over the difference in treatment between the two individuals embroiled in the dispute over a temple land issue, which triggered accusations of double standards in law enforcement.

In a Facebook post titled “Kelas Undang-undang” (lesson on law), lawyer Asiah Jalil said the difference does not necessarily stem from unfair treatment but rather is linked to police arrest and investigation procedures.

According to her, after a suspect is arrested and the remand period ends, he or she would usually be released on police bail if authorities have not yet pressed charges.

"After being released, the suspect cannot be arrested again (for the same offence). This means the police cannot arrest someone two or three times for investigations related to the same offence.

"Later, if the authorities are ready to bring the case to court, the police will issue a notice for the suspect to appear in court on a specified date. "The suspect can go to court freely without being escorted or handcuffed," she said in a posting yesterday.

Asiah (above) pointed out that in Arun's case, the Temple Preservation Action Team (Tepat) chairperson had allegedly committed the offence in March 2025.

Given that it allegedly happened about a year ago, she said it was likely that Arun had gone through the arrest and investigation process earlier than Zamri, who was charged over a statement he allegedly made in February this year.

Preacher Zamri Vinoth (left) and activist Arun Dorasamy

"So do you understand now why Arun went to court without handcuffs, while Zamri was? "I believe Arun would have been arrested last year while Zamri was yet to have any arrest report (prior to this)," she said.

Kunta kinte : Dr Akmal, perhaps you should consider a law degree. It may be more useful in your political career.

orang kg IA : Hope this clarifies and clear the air for some political actors who are using every issue as race & religious prejudice with hidden agenda

BlueHornet6355 : Why akmal didn't say anything that zamri was given VIP treatment and dinner in the station when he was detained to give his statement but not Arun. Not fair la to Arun also, he should be treated to a banana leaf meal.

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