Cheras custodial death: Family takes plea to PM’s doorstep, seeks transparent probe

The family of Noorizwan Zulkefly, who died in police custody in Cheras, made their plea for justice directly to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's doorsteps on Wednesday. Accompanied by lawyers from the rights group Lawyers for Liberty, the 42-year-old's family delivered a formal protest memorandum to Anwar's representative at the latter's private residence in Bandar Sungai Long.

Noorizwan's younger brother, Nooranis Zulkefly, handed over the document, which expressed their deep concern over the unexplained physical injuries found during the post-mortem examination. Pathologists at Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz confirmed that while there was no internal organ trauma, Noorizwan bore multiple external contusions and injuries.

The cause of death remains uncertified as the Chemistry Department conducts specialized tests. Noorizwan was arrested on September 19 on charges of drug possession, burglary, and theft under the Penal Code. He was transferred to the hospital on September 30 due to his deteriorating condition. The family's petition comes after Police Chief Datuk Fadil Marsus defended the custodial administration, claiming officers followed standard procedures before Noorizwan fell ill.

Bukit Aman's Criminal Investigation and Deaths in Custody Unit is now investigating 78 witnesses, including police personnel, medical experts, legal representatives, and Noorizwan's family.