S. Balamurugan was found dead on the 8th of February 2017, while detained at the North Klang District Police Headquarters. Arrested on suspicion of a crime, Balamurugan was allegedly subjected to severe physical abuse by police officers, even after a magistrate ordered his release and medical treatment due to his poor condition. He was denied care and was later found dead in his cell. Multiple investigations revealed negligence and police misconduct, leading to a Kuala Lumpur High Court ruling in 2024. The court ordered the police and government to pay RM338,000 in damages to his family for negligence, assault, and breach of statutory duty. 
This is just one of many cases of death in custody in Malaysia. 
We speak to Sevan Doraisamy, Executive Director, SUARAM. 

There’s also an upcoming exhibition/event by SUARAM called “Ruang Khas” centred around S. Balamurugan and death in police custody. 
Date: 27 – 29 September, 2024
Time: 11am to 6pm
Venue: Embrace Hall, Johor Bahru

Image credit: Shutterstock

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