Special committee to probe death of commando in Lok Kawi army demo

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Army will form a special committee to investigate the cause of death of an army commando who died in an accidental shootout during a demonstration in Kota Kinabalu.

In a statement issued on Wednesday (Sept 4), the Malaysian Army confirmed the death of Mejar Mohd Zahir Armaya.

"We confirm the death of an officer during a demonstration exercise held in conjunction with the launching of the 13th Infantry Brigade and 5th Infantry Division at the Lok Kawi army camp.

"The simulation had been ongoing since Aug 19 but on the proper demonstration day, there was a fatal situation.

"The Malaysian Army will form a special investigation committee to identify the cause of the incident," said the public relations department of the Malaysian Army.

It also stated that all funeral expenses and welfare of the family of Mejar Mohd Zahir would be borne by the Malaysian Army.

Mejar Mohd Zahir, a son of veteran actor-comedian A.R. Badul, was killed after a live bullet hit him during a demonstration at the camp.

He died at Queen Elizabeth Hospital after he was rushed there following the accidental shooting at about 9.20am on Wednesday (Sept 4), sources said.

A post-mortem is being conducted at the hospital.

Mejar Mohd Zahir was taking part in an army demonstration attended by senior army officers.