The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) will set up a special unit to investigate cases of death involving detainees, said Home Minister Hamzah Zainudin.

He said it would be known as the Criminal Investigation Unit on Deaths in Custody and will be staffed by 12 police personnel and a civilian staff member.

"This unit will begin operation on Jan 1 next year, headed by a police superintendent. Beginning this date, all deaths involving detainees...