Abuse of power & retaliationOversight & ethics enforcementPhysical & psychological abuse
Malaysia's human rights commission finds Taiping Prison staff used excessive force in January 2025 transfer that left an inmate dead; one officer charged, five face discipline
Confidence: Corroborated · 3 sourcesMalaysia · Oct 6, 2026
Subject of this story
Malaysian Prisons Department
Also named
Oversight
Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM)
What happened
On 17 January 2025, during a transfer of detainees from Hall B to Block E at Taiping Prison, more than 100 inmates were allegedly assaulted by about 60 wardens and detainee Gan Chin Eng died. SUHAKAM's public inquiry report (25 May 2026) found excessive force and breaches of Articles 5 and 8 of the Federal Constitution, and said prison personnel altered medical records and filed false police reports; it urged prosecution of the officers involved. The Prisons Department says one officer has been charged in court and five staff face disciplinary proceedings, and that it will cooperate with SUHAKAM's findings.
Sources (3)
New Straits TimesDetainees were punched, kicked, dragged, trampled and sprayed with pepper spray while handcuffed and seated in a row; findings of violations of Articles 5 and 8 of the Federal Constitution.
MalaysiakiniSuhakam's public inquiry panel found prison staff caused the riot; medical records were falsified and the panel called for prompt prosecution of the officers involved.
RTMFive Taiping Prison staff face disciplinary action and one was charged in court; over 100 detainees allegedly attacked by about 60 wardens, one detainee, Gan Chin Eng, died.
Response
Malaysian Prisons Department
Statement given
Contacted and responded — exact wording not on record.
What happened next (0)
No outcome recorded yet.