Malaysia Airlines MH17 crash: Malaysia government calls for comprehensive independent probe

KUALA LUMPUR (THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK) - The Malaysian government has called for a comprehensive investigation by international independent bodies into the crash of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17.

In a strongly worded motion at a specially convened session of Parliament on Wednesday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak called on all parties to work together to ensure investigations are completed immediately.

"The House also demands that a comprehensive investigation be carried out so that those believed to be responsible for this crime against humanity through the shooting down of MH17 are immediately brought to justice," said Najib in Parliament.

He said the House also strongly condemned the "inhumane, uncivilised, violent and irresponsible" action of the parties believed to have shot down the Boeing 777.

The House also expressed its sadness at the unfortunate tragedy which has claimed of 298 people, including 43 Malaysians.

On Monday, Malaysia secured an agreement for the release of the victims' body and the black boxes as well as for international investigators to have access to the crash site in eastern Ukraine.

Najib, working through intermediaries to reach rebel leader Alexander Borodai, was a key figure in brokering the deal.

The Boeing 777 was en route from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur when it crashed in eastern Ukraine last Thursday.

It is believed to have been brought down by a surface-to-air missile.

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