Edict claims death in custody at Pengkalan Chepa prison

An inmate at Pengkalan Chepa prison had died in custody on Sept 1 allegedly due to injuries sustained while in detention, according to human rights NGO Eliminating Death and Abuse in Custody Together (Edict).

Edict executive director Khalid Mohd Ismath said they reached out to the victim's family after his sister-in-law shared the story on a viral Facebook page.

"The victim's family confirmed his death but they do not want to be contacted via phone. Only through FB messenger," Khalid told Malaysiakini.

He also claimed that the victim's family had declined further contact with Edict, after they refused to lodge a police report over the death.

In a statement earlier, Edict said it was made to understand that the victim had no prior health conditions before his detention for ketum possession.

"However, the family was shocked to see the injuries sustained by the victim while in detention.

"According to claims by the victim's sister-in-law, the victim sustained injuries to his lungs, chest and stomach," the NGO added.

It also shared the viral Facebook post which, among others, claimed the victim was hospitalised last month for a leg operation, and that his family was not informed of his worsening condition.

Edict further urged the Pengkalan Chepa prison to clarify circumstances of the death and to take necessary actions if there are elements of misconduct.

Malaysiakini contacted the Pengkalan Chepa prison but was informed that no officer was available to respond on a Saturday. - Mkini