KOTA BARU: A 46-year-old man suspected of critically injuring his seven-year-old nephew in a hammer attack was found dead at Pantai Melawi here.
The suspect allegedly assaulted the boy at 5.15pm on Thursday (Sept 25) in a shoplot on Jalan Pasar Jelawat, Bachok, before fleeing the scene on a motorcycle.
Bachok deputy OCPD Deputy Supt Mohd Azrie Sulaiman said the suspect's body was found about 3km away later in the evening.
"A forensic team handled the body.
"The victim remains in critical condition at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia Hospital in Kubang Kerian with serious head injuries,” he said when contacted on Friday (Sept 26).
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He said investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the suspect's death.
In a related development, police have arrested the victim’s 36-year-old aunt to assist with the investigation.
"The case is being investigated under Section 326 of the Penal Code for causing grievous harm with a dangerous weapon and Section 31(1) of the Child Act 2001," DSP Azrie said in a subsequent statement.
Preliminary investigations suggest the deceased suspect had been suffering from hallucinations and had a history of drug abuse.
"The public is advised to refrain from speculation that could interfere with the investigation and affect the sensitivity of the victim’s family,” he added.
It was reported on Thursday that a child was in critical condition after his uncle allegedly hit him on the head with a hammer. – Bernama
