19-12-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) Two Malaysian nationals, recently released from Guantanamo Bay detention facility, have been granted a pathway to societal reintegration through a comprehensive rehabilitation programme, according to Malaysia’s top police official.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain confirmed that Mohammed Farik Amin and Mohammed Nazir Lep, who had been in US custody since 2006, have safely returned to Malaysian soil and reunited with their families.
“Following directives from the Home Ministry, both individuals will undergo thorough assessment and rehabilitation before their gradual reintegration into society,” Razarudin said in an official statement released Wednesday.
The pair, who earlier this year admitted to their involvement in the 2002 Bali bombings as accessories, were transferred to Malaysian authorities on Wednesday. They had previously been held in the CIA’s covert overseas detention network before their transfer to Guantanamo Bay in 2006.
According to Razarudin, both men expressed profound gratitude for their return and demonstrated a firm commitment to becoming constructive members of society. “We believe in second chances, and these individuals will be given the opportunity to rebuild their lives within our community,” he emphasised.
The men’s release follows their agreement to testify against Indonesian national Encep Nurjaman, widely known as Hambali, the former Jemaah Islamiyah leader. Hambali currently faces serious charges, including murder, terrorism, and conspiracy related to the 2002 and 2003 incidents. If convicted, he could receive a life sentence.
The cases stem from proceedings in a special security court established by former US President George W. Bush in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks. The New York Times reported that both Malaysian nationals’ testimony against Hambali formed part of their plea arrangement.
