Malaysian diplomat accused of sex attack returned to New zealand

New Zealand Foreign Minister Murray McCully on Wednesday welcomed a Malaysian government announcement that the diplomat accused of sex attack on a young woman would be returned to New Zealand to face prosecution.

The announcement was made by Malaysian Foreign Minister Anifah Aman.

In a statement late Wednesday, McCully said, "the young woman involved has been through a great deal and the way this matter has been handled has only added to her suffering. I hope she, and her family, will welcome the news that the accused will return to New Zealand so the matter can be fully investigated as was always the government's intention."

He also said, "I want to convey my thanks to the Malaysian government for this very welcome development which underlines the good faith and integrity with which they have approached this issue."

Malaysian High Commission defense attache Muhammad Rizalman bin Ismail, 35, claimed diplomatic immunity and left New Zealand shortly after being charged with burglary and assault with intent to rape in Wellington in May.

The case has caused public outrage in New Zealand.