Suhakam calls for inquest into Pakistani man's custodial death

KUALA LUMPUR: The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) has urged an inquest into the death of a Pakistani man, Jamshed Ahmed, who passed away during detention by the Immigration Department a year ago.

In a statement, Suhakam said the inquest is crucial to determine if any criminal negligence contributed to Jamshed's death on Jan 15 last year.

Jamshed was reportedly arrested at his home in Rawang on Jan 6 last year, and detained at the Bukit Jalil Immigration Depot.

According to the commission, he was in poor health and visibly weak while in custody. He was later hospitalised but succumbed to his condition on Jan 15.

Suhakam's investigation revealed that Jamshed suffered from diabetes and required daily insulin, which was allegedly not provided during his detention, ultimately leading to his demise.

"This claim was corroborated by consistent accounts from the complainant, other detainees, depot personnel, and medical officers," the commission said.

The commission also said there is potential negligence, noting that Jamshed did not undergo the mandatory health screening upon arrival at the detention centre.

"The assistant medical officer was unaware of his need for insulin until he collapsed on Jan 9."

Suhakam added that Jamshed was held for several days without any investigation by the Immigration Department.

"After Jamshed's death, a police report was filed, but no investigating officer was assigned, and the report was simply "referred" to the hospital."

"Its findings were submitted to the authorities, including the Attorney-General's Chambers, in June, but no response has been received to date.

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