PETALING JAYA:Investigations into the assault of a soldier have now been reclassified as murder following the death of Prebet Muhammad Amirul Raziq Rosafindi (pic).
Bentong OCPD Supt Zaiham Mohd Kahar confirmed the reclassification.
“After the victim’s death on Saturday at 9.34am, the investigation previously conducted under Section 325 (Punishment for voluntarily causing grievous hurt) will now be reclassified under Section 302 of the Penal Code.
“An application to conduct a post-mortem has been issued, and the police will re-examine previous statements. If the need arises, additional statements will be recorded,” he said in a statement yesterday.
Previously, police detained an army corporal to assist in the investigation of an incident involving the assault of seven other military personnel.
The suspect, a lower-rank non-commissioned officer, used physical force, including slapping and punching the victims in the face and abdomen.
The incident occurred at the 25th Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment (25 RAMD) on March 30.
Supt Zaiham said that the 37-year-old suspect was arrested following a police report lodged by a 49-year-old man, who was the father of one of the victims.
He said initial investigations found the suspect allegedly assaulted a 24-year-old victim by hitting, punching and kicking him in several parts of his body.
“Investigations also found that there were six other victims, who are all military personnel aged between 19 and 22,” he said.
In a prior statement the army said that it viewed the matter seriously and that firm action would be taken on those found responsible.
“We view the matter seriously and have convened a board of inquiry to determine the cause of the incident. Firm action will be taken against those found responsible.
“We will not compromise on any form of misconduct that violates existing laws and regulations.
“We urge the public to refrain from speculating on the case, as it could disrupt investigations,” the Army said.
On April 6, Sukry Tasu, 37, pleaded not guilty at the Bentong Magistrate’s Court to seven charges of assaulting several fellow personnel last month.
