After having spent seven years behind bars, former police Special Action Force (UTK) personnel Sirul Azhar Umar is now looking forward to returning to normal life.

As the second accused in the murder of Mongolian translator Altantuya Shaariibuu, the ex-corporal said he was thankful that everything had been settled.

"I would like to thank my lawyers, family especially my mother for always praying for my release," said the divorcee. "I want to return to a normal life."

During the trial, Sirul Azhar had testified from the dock, saying he had been made a scapegoat over the whole affair and claimed that Altantuya’s jewellery were planted in his apartment.

His 13-year-old son, when met after the Court of Appeal verdict, said he was glad that his father was free as he had longed to be with him.

Approached by Bernama before he and another accused Azilah Hadri were brought back to the prison for the release process, Sirul Azhar, who was usually serious, showed a friendly side and expressed his gratefulness for the outcome of the case. 

"I am grateful to Allah that everything is over now. I thank my lawyers who defended me and also my family, especially my mother, who never stopped praying for me. I intend to continue leading a normal life after this," he was quoted as saying.

Sirul Azhar's uncle Mustapha Samat, from Ipoh, said since his nephew was charged with murder, he managed to attend the court hearing three times and that he had kept praying that the former would be freed.

Mustapha, who arrived in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, was seen contacting his other family members to inform them of the court's decision.

NONEMeanwhile, first accused, also an ex-police Special Action Force personnel, Azilah's fiancee said that after seven years of separation, she was looking forward to spending some time with him now.

Nor Azila Baharuddin (right) said she was glad over the verdict.

"We have prayed hard for his release and are thankful for this. Despite being there, Azilah had remained strong and was hopeful that he will be freed one day," said the operations manager.

Azilah said he wanted to return to the Kajang prison in order to thank the wardens there.

"I will perform my Friday prayers there and settle things after that," he said.

Azilah and Sirul were wearing white with red stripes prison shirts, and were handcuffed to prison officials while in court.

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