Inadequate training on interrogation methods is a possible factor behind continuing complaints of torture and death-in-custody cases in police stations, according to a senior lawyer.

NONE Bar Council criminal law committee deputy co-chairperson V Sithambaram ( left ), commenting on the Kuala Lumpur High Court ruling on the custodial death of A Kugan, noted that confessions and cautioned statements have not been accepted in courts for the last eight years.

“The reason for this is that there have been many complaints in courts and also by lawyers over the (questionable) manner in which such information was retrieved,” he said.

“As a result of this, the courts have discontinued the practice of admitting cautioned statements and confessions.”

Yet, said Sithambaram, the police have allegedly continued to use methods of torture to get  information from suspects.

“This shows that the police force possibly lacks training on improving interrogation techniques without the use of force - or orders from the top to stop using such techniques have not trickled down.

“All this has to be improved and emphasised, if we want to see a reduction in death-in-custody cases.”

azlan In the civil suit brought by members of Kugan’s family, KL High Court judge Justice VT Singham had held that then Selangor police chief Khalid Abu Bakar and several other police personnel were liable, and ordered the government to pay damages of RM801,700.

Home Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has since indicated that the police will appeal the decision. 

Human rights NGO Suaram has again called on Malaysia to ratify the UN Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, as well as its Optional Protocol.