24 January 2002 1423 hrs (GMT) 2223 hrs (SST) DPP calls for open trial for 13 ISD detainees by Hwee Goh

The opposition Democratic Progressive Party has called for the 13 ISD detainees to be tried in open court.

The party says in a statement that it strongly condemns terrorism but still calls for an open trial so that the 13 detainees could defend themselves and the public could get to see the evidence against them.

Under the Constitution, an independent Advisory Board has to sit within three months of any ISD-ordered detention to review the investigation, the evidence and the detention order.

The board will be headed by Justice Chao Hick Tin.

Detainees will have access to legal counsel, and will appear before the Board to make representations.