Cops probe alleged abuse at elderly care home near Sungai Petani

PETALING JAYA: Police have opened two investigation papers following allegations that two residents were injured at an elderly care home near Sungai Petani, Kedah.

Kuala Muda police chief Hanyan Ramlan said police received reports from the families of the residents and are investigating the cases under Section 323 of the Penal Code for voluntarily causing hurt.

“One investigation paper has been referred to the deputy public prosecutor, while the other incident remains under investigation.

“Police are gathering statements and evidence to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents,” Bernama reported him as saying today.

Previously, a family member of one of the residents, who declined to be identified, said her 76-year-old mother has been staying at the elderly care home since December last year.

The family member said the management informed them one day that the woman, who has dementia, had fallen from her bed.

They alleged the woman suffered bruises and other injuries. They also claimed to have seen her hands and feet tied to the railings of a metal bed during visits.

A 69-year-old man, who has been staying at the same elderly care home since September 2024, was also alleged to have been subjected to similar treatment.

The nursing home operator, however, denied that residents had been abused and said family members would be informed immediately if any resident is injured.

The operator also said restraints were used only for safety purposes and this was done with the consent of family members.