Cops rule out foul play in convict’s death in cell

The Star

IPOH: Post-mortem reports revealed that the death of a convicted prisoner while in Kampar police custody was due to pulmonary embolism, which is a sudden blockage of the lung artery.

State deputy police chief Senior Asst Comm Datuk A. Paramasivam said the post-mortem report also revealed that there was no trauma or external injury.

“I have personally explained this to the family and I urge the public not to speculate or make any allegation,” he said.

M. Ragu, 47, from Malim Nawar, surrendered himself to the police after assaulting a shopkeeper on March 4.

He was then convicted and sentenced by the Kampar magistrate's court to eight months' jail and fined RM2,000 on March 8.

SAC Paramasivam said that due to unforeseen circumstances, Ragu was not transferred to the Tapah prison immediately after the court decision but was scheduled for yesterday.

He added that the sentry tried to wake him up at his cell on Sunday morning but he showed no movement, so police sent for a medical officer from Kampar Hospital, who later certified that he had died.

In compliance with the Criminal Procedure Code, the police also brought a magistrate to examine the crime scene.

SAC Paramasivam said police classified the case as sudden death and directed Kampar OCPD Supt Ng Kong Soon to find out what exactly happened during Ragu's detention.

“We are sad this happened and extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, but rest assured that we will be transparent and will take action if we find anyone responsible for this. As it is now, there is no foul play.”