A 25-YEAR-OLD prison officer has been charged in connection with the death of an inmate at the Taiping Correctional Centre earlier this year, pleading not guilty before the Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
Ryndee O’nel Victor faces allegations of causing the death of 62-year-old Gan Chin Eng, knowing that his actions could result in the inmate’s death.
The incident reportedly occurred in Hall B of the prison on Jalan Taming Sari, within the Larut, Matang and Selama district, between 3.30 pm and 4 pm on 17 January 2025.
The charge was brought under Section 304(b) of the Penal Code, which carries a potential penalty of up to ten years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both, if convicted. Victor pleaded not guilty and requested a trial.
The prosecution, led by Perak’s Director of Public Prosecutions Muhammad Zaki Abdul Kudos, proposed bail of RM20,000.
Defence lawyer Mohd Aidil Arsad argued for a lower sum, noting that Victor has a pregnant wife to support. Magistrate Ahmad Hamdi Mustafar subsequently granted bail of RM5,000 with two sureties, ordered the surrender of Victor’s passport, and prohibited any interference with witnesses.
The court set 26 February 2026 for the next case mention.
The Taiping prison incident was previously confirmed by the Malaysian Prison Department on 11 February, which stated that a provocation on 17 January had resulted in the death of an inmate. The incident reportedly involved a transfer of a detainee from Batu Gajah Correctional Centre to Taiping.
Victor’s case underscores ongoing scrutiny over prison management and safety, highlighting the legal consequences for staff actions that endanger inmates. - December 19, 2025
