THE Royal Malaysia Police has launched dual investigations into the case of 13-year-old Zara Qairina Mahathir, focusing both on misinformation spread online and alleged procedural failures by officers in the initial probe of her death.
Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) director Datuk M Kumar S Muthuvelu said police are investigating TikTok account @berjuanguntukzara for uploading inaccurate and misleading content.
He warned that unverified claims could confuse the public and undermine the investigation. The case is being probed under the Sedition Act 1948, Penal Code Section 505(b) for causing public fear, and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for improper use of online services.
Separately, Bukit Aman’s Integrity and Standard Compliance Department will open disciplinary proceedings against three Sabah police officers – a superintendent district police chief, an assistant superintendent CID head, and an inspector – for lapses in handling the case.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said the officers failed in their supervisory responsibilities, including the investigating officer’s omission to request a post-mortem.
“They must be held accountable. Firm action will be taken against those who failed to act or supervise properly,” he said.
Zara, a Form One student at SMKA Tun Datu Mustapha in Papar, was found unconscious in a drain near her hostel on July 16 after allegedly falling from the third floor. She died later at Queen Elizabeth I Hospital in Kota Kinabalu. — Aug 16, 2025
