Police Complete Investigation Into Zara Qairina’s Death

KUANTAN, Aug 2 (Bernama) -- Police have completed their investigation into the death of 13-year-old Zara Qairina Mahathir, who was found unconscious in a drain near her school dormitory on July 16.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said about 60 witnesses from various parties had been interviewed in connection with the case.

"The investigation is complete. I expect the police will submit the papers to the Attorney-General’s Chambers by next week at the latest," he said when asked about developments in the case.

He was speaking to reporters after officiating the Passing-Out Parade for the 12/2024 Maritime Junior Lieutenant Basic Course and the 18/2024 Maritime Class II Cadet Basic Course at the Sultan Ahmad Shah Maritime Academy (AMSAS) here today.

Zara Qairina was pronounced dead at Queen Elizabeth I Hospital in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, on July 17. Her death sparked widespread reactions on social media after the case went viral.

Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun was previously reported as saying investigations focused on two main aspects, namely the cause of death and the surrounding circumstances.

Meanwhile, Saifuddin said the government remains committed to strengthening the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency’s (MMEA) operational capabilities, including through the construction of two additional Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV).

He said MMEA is also in the process of acquiring a decommissioned United States Coast Guard Cutter, expected to arrive in November.

"With these assets, I believe we can boost morale and enhance the effectiveness of control, patrol and inspection operations," he said.

A total of 68 officers and 186 personnel completed 10 months of basic training and are now qualified to serve in the MMEA.

Meanwhile, in Kota Kinabalu, Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail confirmed that the investigation paper into the death of Zara Qairina has been completed and will be submitted to the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) for further action.

He urged the public to give the authorities the whole space to handle the case and avoid making speculative comments that could disrupt the investigation process.

“Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun has been providing accurate and timely updates to prevent misinformation or attempts to discredit any party,” he told reporters after paying a courtesy call on Sabah Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman at Istana Seri Kinabalu today.

-- BERNAMA