KUALA LUMPUR: The cause of death of Private Muhammad Muqriz Aseri from the 20th Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment (20 RAMD), Kem Sri Miri, Sarawak, on Monday (March 24) was due to blunt trauma to the chest.
The Malaysian Army, in a statement Wednesday (March 26) confirming it had received the report on the soldier's death, said there was a severe impact to the chest area, which caused damage to the heart.
According to the statement, the cause of the 21-year-old soldier's death was based on preliminary findings from a post-mortem conducted at Miri Hospital on Tuesday (March 25).
The Army also revealed that initial investigations by the unit found elements of manhandling that are believed to have contributed to his death.
"As such, the Army has handed the case over to the Royal Malaysia Police for further investigation and has also set up an internal Board of Inquiry to identify the causes and factors leading to this incident," the statement read.
The Army also confirmed that the remains of Muhammad Muqriz were flown to Kuala Lumpur and were laid to rest at the Al-Islamiah Mosque Cemetery, Petaling Jaya, at 11.55pm Tuesday.
Army Chief General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan, in the same statement, said that the Army will fully cooperate with the authorities to ensure a transparent and fair investigation and will not compromise on any personnel found guilty.
The Army also urged the public to refrain from making statements or speculating in a way that could disrupt the ongoing investigation.
"The Army Chief also expresses deep sorrow and extends condolences to the family of the deceased, hoping they remain strong in facing this loss," the statement added. - Bernama
