Authorities Confirm No Foul Play in Custodial Death of 25-Year-Old K. Roopan

By Subaashinee Kupusamy,

14 SEPTEMBER: The death of 25-year-old K. Roopan while in custody at Kajang Prison in June 2021 has been ruled as due to natural causes. Coroner Rasyihah Ghazali confirmed that Roopan died from a pulmonary thromboembolism, a blockage in the lungs caused by a blood clot, and no foul play or negligence was involved.

Roopan had been hospitalized for breathing difficulties shortly before his death and was discharged back to prison. His passing occurred just days before his court appeal for murder charges, which he had been contesting. According to the coroner’s findings, there was no evidence of criminal violence or abuse during his imprisonment.

Roopan’s case garnered attention due to the proximity of his death to his appeal hearing. However, medical reports and witness statements confirmed that his health condition was the primary cause. This conclusion aims to put to rest any speculations of mistreatment.

The authorities have since reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining transparency in custodial investigations to ensure public trust in the system. The coroner emphasized that the ruling reflects the importance of adhering to legal procedures and a thorough examination of all circumstances surrounding deaths in custody as stated in Astro Ulagam.