KUALA LUMPUR: THE nine Australians who were arrested for stripping in Sepang and held for four days cannot expect to enjoy the comfort of mattresses and air-conditioning in a police lock-up.
Selangor police chief Datuk Abdul Samah Mat, in responding to their claims that the cells were dirty and uncomfortable, said police were following standard operating procedure (SOP).
“I have never been locked up in Australia, so I do not know if they provide Vono mattresses and air-conditioning in their cells.”
Samah told the New Straits Times he was unsure why the Australians made such comments because all detainees would be treated equally, whether they were locals or foreigners.
“I do not know what is their expectation of lock-ups in Malaysia, but we cannot give foreigners special treatment. We followed the SOP. They (the Australians) were fed the same meal at the scheduled time, just like other detainees, whether locals or foreigners.
“On claims that the cells have no running water, there are showers and taps (at the toilet) for detainees to use.” He added that drinking water was also provided according to schedule.
The detainees’ outfits, said Samah, were sent to a laundry to be cleaned from time to time. If detainees complained of not feeling well, police would take them to hospital.
Samah said if doctors decided to admit the detainee, the police would comply.
“There is no problem there. If medicine is prescribed, police will give it to them on time.” Federal police management director Datuk Seri Zulkifli Abdullah said the lock-up condition at police stations met human rights’ requirements.
“I do not agree with the claims as our lock-ups are improved from time to time. Generally, we have improved in terms of security and will continue to improve the facilities in the cells.”
The nine Australians were arrested for stripping down to their Jalur Gemilang underwear at the Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang International Circuit on Oct 3.
They were subsequently charged at the Sepang Sessions Court with causing public nuisance.
However, they were cautioned and discharged on Oct 6 after they apologised before Judge Harith Sham Mohamed Yasin.
Harith said he had taken into consideration the young age of the accused and their lack of awareness that the act was insensitive.-nst
