Prison physician in Taiping employs body scanner for routine medical examination, according to inquiry findings
The Suhakam inquiry, led by Hishamudin Yunus and commissioner Farah Nini Dusuki, is currently investigating allegations of assault during the relocation of inmates from Hall B to Block E of Taiping Prison [1].
During the course of the inquiry, it was revealed that Dr. V Navin Esavik, the prison doctor, used a full-body scanner to examine an inmate for suspected fractures and soft tissue injuries following the relocation exercise on January 17 [1]. Dr. Navin testified that he had modified the body scanner to detect small fractures with permission from the officer-in-charge, a practice he claimed was common [1].
However, Dr. Navin admitted that he lacked the certification and training required to operate the body scanner properly [1]. This admission raised concerns about the accuracy of the examinations conducted and the potential harm that could have been caused to the inmates.
Legal representatives accused Dr. Navin of breaching medical ethics, particularly the Hippocratic Oath of “do no harm,” by failing to intervene to ensure inmate safety during the incident [1]. Dr. Navin defended his inaction by citing concern for his own safety but dismissed fears that he might be assaulted if he intervened [1].
Instead of sending the inmate to the hospital for a proper assessment, Dr. Navin used the wrong equipment to examine the inmate's injuries, according to Shashi Devan [2]. Devan stated that Navin should have sent any inmate with a suspected fracture to the hospital for a conclusive reading on the state of their injuries.
The public inquiry continues tomorrow, with Suhakam emphasizing the need for truth and rebuking at least one prison warden for providing false testimony supported by CCTV footage [3]. Concerns have been raised about false testimonies by officers, which could undermine the inquiry’s integrity if not addressed [3].
In sum, the key updates are: - Dr. V Navin used a full-body scanner beyond his qualifications during the inmate relocation inquiry. - He admitted to modifying the scanner and not sending inmates to hospitals despite suspected injuries. - He faced criticism for breaching medical ethics and inaction during reported assaults. - Suhakam continues the inquiry amid concerns over witness credibility and institutional reforms [1][3]. - Navin was questioned by lawyer Shashi Devan, who represented the family of deceased inmate Gan Chin Eng.
[1] The Star Online, "Suhakam inquiry into Taiping Prison assault continues," 2022-03-01, https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2022/03/01/suhakam-inquiry-into-taiping-prison-assault-continues
[2] Malay Mail, "Prison doctor used wrong equipment to examine inmate's injuries, says lawyer," 2022-02-28, https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2022/02/28/prison-doctor-used-wrong-equipment-to-examine-inmates-injuries-says-lawyer/1989456
[3] The Malaysian Reserve, "Suhakam inquiry: Witnesses' credibility questioned," 2022-02-25, https://themalaysianreserve.com/2022/02/25/suhakam-inquiry-witnesses-credibility-questioned/
