NGO demands independent probe team in proposed Coroner's Bill

Eliminating Deaths and Abuse in Custody Together (Edict) has raised concerns about the adequacy of current mechanisms for investigating custodial deaths, arguing that allowing police to conduct internal probes creates inherent bias in the investigative process.

The NGO contends that deaths occurring while persons are in police custody represent a category of cases requiring external scrutiny to ensure impartiality and public confidence in the findings. Edict maintains that an independent probe team, separate from police authority, would better serve the interests of accountability and transparency.

The position comes as discussions continue regarding reforms to Malaysia's Coroner's Bill, a legislative framework governing inquiries into sudden or unnatural deaths. The proposed amendments have drawn input from various stakeholders concerned with strengthening oversight mechanisms and safeguarding individual rights during custodial detention.

Edict's intervention reflects broader civil society efforts to enhance institutional checks on law enforcement practices and ensure robust investigation standards for cases involving potential state responsibility. The group's recommendations are expected to feature in ongoing consultations with relevant government bodies and policymakers shaping the bill's final provisions.