Malaysia arrests opposition figures to thwart protest demanding release of their leader
Anwar's supporters demand his release from jail as police make arrests
Malaysian police arrested two politicians and a political activist as they sought to thwart a protest march demanding the release of jailed opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim, an opposition parliamentarian said.
Tian Chua said he also would comply with an order to surrender to police yesterday, but called for the rally scheduled later in Kuala Lumpur to go ahead.
The arrests are the latest in an escalating crackdown on government opponents amid anger over Anwar's jailing last month on a sodomy charge.
"Today's protest will continue. The people will lead it. If they think arresting the leaders will stop it, they are wrong," said Tian Chua, vice-president of Anwar's People's Justice Party.
Zainuddin Ahmad, a top Kuala Lumpur police official, said protesters would not be allowed to gather.
"The street procession is banned. Police will not hesitate to take any action, including arrests, if people defy the ban or break any laws," he said.