A riot broke out at Malaysia’s historic Taiping Prison on January 17, 2025, resulting in the death of 62-year-old inmate Gan Chin Eng during a prisoner transfer [1, 2]. Prison warden Ryndee O'Nel Victor, aged 25, has been formally charged under Section 304(b) of the Penal Code for causing Gan’s death [1].
In addition to the warden’s charge, one other prison officer faces criminal charges related to the incident, while five additional prison staff members are undergoing internal disciplinary proceedings over their conduct during the riot, authorities announced in June 2026 [1, 2]. The Prisons Department emphasized its zero-tolerance stance on misconduct and abuses of power within its ranks [1, 2].
Taiping Prison, a 146-year-old facility designated a National Heritage Building, has long been considered outdated and unsuitable for modern corrections needs [1, 2]. Following the incident, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) called for swift disciplinary measures against those involved and dismissed concerns about double jeopardy [1]. Suhakam's public inquiry also recommended converting Taiping Prison into a museum due to its unsuitability as a correctional facility [2].
Authorities are moving ahead with plans through the Home Ministry to build a new, modern prison complex to replace Taiping Prison and other aging facilities [1, 2]. The warden’s charges were filed nearly a year after the riot, on December 19, 2025 [1]. The Prisons Department’s public announcement of charges and disciplinary actions came on June 16, 2026 [2].
The disciplinary proceedings against the five staff members continue, with the criminal case against Ryndee O’Nel Victor pending further legal steps.
