SIBU: A fight that left a local man battered and unconscious has turned into a murder investigation after the victim succumbed to severe head injuries while receiving treatment at hospital.
Sibu police chief ACP Azari Miskon said the man was allegedly beaten with a wooden stick during the altercation, suffering serious injuries to the head.
He was later rushed to Sibu Hospital in critical condition and had been in a coma before he was pronounced dead last Friday (May 8).
“The victim was confirmed dead at around 2 pm while undergoing treatment at the hospital due to the injuries sustained.
“Following the incident, police launched an investigation and detained a local man in his 40s believed to be linked to the assault.
“The suspect has been remanded for six days to facilitate further investigations,” he said.
Azari stated that the case was initially investigated under Section 326 of the Penal Code for voluntarily causing grievous hurt using a dangerous weapon or object.
However, after the victim’s death, police reclassified the investigation under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder.
Upon conviction, it carries the death penalty or imprisonment of up to 40 years and, if spared the gallows, up to 12 strokes of the cane.
In light of this, Azari warned that firm action would continue to be taken against those involved in violent crimes.
Members of the public are urged not to speculate on the incident and to report any information to the police to assist investigations.
