The legal team representing the family of 13-year-old Zahra Kelina, who fell to her death, suggests that the Attorney General’s Chambers prosecute those involved in bullying based on testimonies obtained by the police.
The legal team, led by Sharan Zufri, stated this today (14th) in a press release responding to the remarks made yesterday by Dato’ Kumar, Director of the National Criminal Investigation Department, during a press conference.
At that time, Kumar quoted a report by the Bukit Aman Special Investigation Team which indicated that there were, indeed, signs of bullying in Zahra Kelina’s case before the incident.
The legal team pointed out that, if the Attorney General’s Chambers decides to prosecute those involved, there would be no need to further investigate Zahra Kelina’s death.
“If the court accepts the above testimonies, we recommend that the Attorney General’s Chambers charge the perpetrators of bullying under Section 507D(2) of the Penal Code.”
“Under this section, the accused can be sentenced to up to 10 years’ imprisonment, or a fine, or both.”
“However, if the above testimonies are insufficient to constitute an offense under Section 507D(2), then a more thorough investigation should be conducted to strengthen the evidence.”
They stated that, in such cases, the incident causing death should be investigated until the evidence is sufficient for prosecution.
Kumar stated yesterday that the police have carried out a thorough investigation into this case, including looking into it from the perspective of school bullying.
He reiterated that the special task force will investigate the case from all angles, including whether there were any criminal elements. He said the police are investigating the case under Section 507d(2) of the Penal Code (threatening, insulting, or defamatory words or acts intended to incite others to self-harm or harm others), which, upon conviction, is punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a fine, or both.
Additionally, on the same day, the Attorney General’s Chambers issued a statement indicating that, after reviewing the police investigation report, they have decided to convene an inquest under Section 339(1) of the Criminal Procedure Code to determine the cause of Zahra Kelina’s death.
Regarding earlier rumors circulating on social media about a “plot twist” implicating Zahra Kelina’s mother, Norlida, Sharan Zufri refuted these claims, stating that such rumors slander both their client and the deceased.
“The so-called ‘plot twist’ is a malicious and disgusting narrative, intended to defame our client and Zahra Kelina herself.”
Nevertheless, Sharan Zufri urged those with knowledge of the case to bravely come forward and assist the police in their investigation.
“Please provide your information to the police. If you are afraid or require assistance, you may contact us directly.”
“At the same time, we ask everyone to refrain from making unfounded speculations about Zahra Kelina’s death.”
Additionally, Sharan Zufri expressed gratitude to the police for acting swiftly and to the public for supporting justice for Zahra Kelina.