IGP on Suaram's police intimidation claim: We just wanted to question them

Inspector-general of police Abdul Hamid Bador today said police only wanted information when they questioned Suaram's representative and the family members of two men who claimed they were tortured in custody at Klang Selatan district police headquarters.

This is after Suaram executive director D Sevan alleged police intimidation.

"I am aware of it. For those who make allegations of police brutality, we conduct an internal investigation. When we meet a dead end, police will call those who make the allegations to ask them about it.

"It is not to arrest them but merely to inquire," he told journalists after visiting a Ramadan bazaar in Taman Tun Dr Ismail this evening.

Yesterday, Sevan said police should be investigating the allegations of torture, instead of questioning whistleblowers.

Hamid said: "(They question) why we are not investigating (the allegation) but are calling those who made the report.

“Of course, we need to call them to the police station to get an explanation about where he got the information that detainees were supposedly tortured. So, it's normal, don't be afraid."

However, he urged anyone making allegations of police brutality to act responsibly.

"There was a case in Sentul where allegations were made, the media picked it up and the police were seen as evil.

"But when we took action and investigated, we found that there were elements that were untrue, and when we tried to find the person who made the claim, he ran," said Hamid.

He said police will take the necessary action, but reserve the right to defend themselves if the claims are unfounded.

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