LAWYERS representing the families of three men shot dead by police in Durian Tunggal, Melaka, have confirmed that a key audio recording from the incident is original and unedited — and have handed it directly to top investigators at Bukit Aman after alleging police failed to request it.
The recording, captured by the wife of one of the victims shortly before the shooting on November 24, was delivered to Superintendent Ta Kah Loon from the Classified Criminal Investigation Unit (D5), Special Investigation Division.
Family members said they took the initiative only because no investigating officer had contacted them, despite a police report being lodged earlier.
“This is a critical piece of evidence, yet the police never asked for it,” said family lawyer N. Surendran outside Bukit Aman.
“There has been no communication with the families. They had to come all the way from different states just to ensure the evidence reaches investigators.”
Surendran questioned the seriousness of the investigation, saying a transparent inquiry cannot begin if essential evidence is ignored.
Lawyers demand immediate action
Another legal representative, Rajesh Nagarajan, said the audio recording, together with post-mortem findings, is sufficient for authorities to begin questioning and taking action against the officers involved.
“Where is the urgency? Why is there still no arrest?” he asked.
“Even CCTV footage from the PLUS highway has yet to be examined. More than 72 hours have passed and families are the ones pushing for progress.”
Families reject police narrative
Police previously claimed the men — alleged members of a robbery gang — attacked officers with a machete, leaving one policeman seriously injured before being shot dead.
However, the legal team argues that the recorded audio indicates the victims were already in police custody for more than 10 minutes before gunfire erupted.
“We have heard it, and it clearly contradicts the official version,” Surendran said.
Calls for accountability
The families urged authorities to act in line with the government’s position on transparency, referencing Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s recent directive for investigations into police shootings to be thorough and impartial.
“If we call ourselves a nation governed by the rule of law, then that must be reflected in how this case is handled,” Surendran said.
The families say they will continue pressing for accountability until a full and fair investigation is carried out. – December 6, 2025
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