KUALA LUMPUR – PKR leader Sivamalar Genapathy has called for a transparent and independent investigation into the death of Noorizwan Zulkefly in police custody, demanding answers over allegations that 21 injuries were found on his body.
The PKR Central Leadership Council member said the investigation must establish the circumstances surrounding Noorizwan’s death at the Cheras District Police Headquarters and ensure that anyone found responsible for negligence or misconduct is held accountable.
“Deaths in custody demand clear answers. Simply stating that an investigation is underway is not enough.
“The Inspector-General of Police must ensure that all evidence is examined and that no one is shielded from investigation,” she said in a statement today.
Sivamalar said allegations by the family’s lawyer that the deceased had sustained 21 injuries, including injuries reportedly caused by blunt-force trauma, required a clear explanation from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).
She stressed that the family deserved to know the truth and should not be left struggling to obtain answers about the death of their loved one while he was under the care of the authorities.
Sivamalar also questioned the investigation involving the lawyer representing the family, saying the police should explain the grounds for the probe.
“Efforts to obtain information and examine post-mortem photographs should not result in lawyers being investigated for carrying out their professional responsibilities.
“PDRM must explain the basis of the investigation,” she said.
She urged the Home Ministry to ensure that the case was investigated independently and that the family could pursue justice without obstruction.
Highlighting the wider concern over deaths in police custody, Sivamalar cited figures announced by the Deputy Home Minister in the Dewan Rakyat on July 8, which recorded 12 cases in 2023, 13 in 2024 and 22 in 2025.
She said the figures underscored the need for urgent reforms in custodial management, tighter supervision of lock-ups and stronger safeguards to protect detainees.
“Detention is not a punishment, and no one should be denied the right to life and legal protection simply because they are suspected of committing an offence,” she said.
Sivamalar, a lawyer before entering politics, said her position on custodial deaths remained unchanged, stressing that the principles of rejecting abuse of power, protecting the rights of lawyers and holding the authorities accountable must apply regardless of whether a party was in government or in opposition.
She called on the Madani Government to prioritise comprehensive reforms to the custodial system and strengthen oversight mechanisms to prevent similar incidents.
“The family has lost a loved one while he was in the custody of the authorities. That loss cannot be undone, but they deserve to know the truth, receive proper redress and see justice served,” she said. -MalayaDailyToday
