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Zara Qairina: Initial Investigation Failed To Follow SOPs

Aug 13, 2025

Bukit Aman has highlighted SOP breaches in the initial investigation into Zara Qairina's death.  

The Criminal Investigation Dept chief says the investigating officer should have asked for a post-mortem, due to the suspicious circumstances surrounding her death.  

According to Datuk M. Kumar, it should have been done despite Zara's mother declining a post-mortem. 

He adds that the investigating officer and his superior will be placed under an internal investigation.  

This, as a special Bukit Aman task force took over the investigation.  

The CID chief also says so far, 82 statements have been recorded as part of the probe. 

They have also denied the involvement of any VVIPs in her death.  

He adds that the task force is investigating if the school tried to cover up the incident.  

This, as police confirmed the arrest a woman in Rawang, Selangor for allegedly spreading fake news about her death.  

The case is being investigated for sedition, as well as misuse of network facilities.  

Meanwhile cops are investigating 14 other instances of fake news over the case.  

Cops say they need to take tough action on this matter, as misinformation could disrupt public order and hamper investigations. 

Besides the Bukit Aman investigation, authorities will also conduct a formal inquest.  

Earlier today, the Attorney General's Chambers announced that the inquest will focus on what caused her death, and determine if any criminal elements were involved.  

Proceedings will be held by a coroner’s court, and it will be done in an independent and transparent manner, in accordance with provisions of the law. 

Also, authorities say 120 of Zara's schoolmates will undergo intervention, after her death left them traumatized.  

Zara was found unconscious near her school hostel in Sabah, and died in hospital a day later. 

The school's principal, senior assistant for student affairs and all the wardens have since been temporarily reassigned to the Sabah Education Department, while investigations are underway.