Detainee dies after complaining of breathing difficulties

KUALA LUMPUR: A 39-year-old man detained for drug-related offences has died after complaining of breathing difficulties.

Bukit Aman Integrity and Standards Compliance Department director Comm Datuk Azri Ahmad said the man was detained at about 4.45pm on Monday (Feb 14) in connection with an investigation under Section 12(2) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.

He was also wanted for another case under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.

"He was brought to the Gombak district police headquarters for further action," Comm Azri said in a statement on Tuesday (Feb 15).

The detainee complained of breathing difficulties at about 5.30pm, he said.

"(Arrangements were made) to bring him to Hospital Selayang for treatment.

"The detained died at about 6.30pm while receiving treatment at Hospital Selayang," he added.

Comm Azri said the cause of death has not been established.

"The department's Crime Investigation Unit on Death In Custody will investigate the matter," he said.