KAJANG: Inconsistencies in the statements provided by both Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matiin's parents and other witnesses were among the factors that led to the remand extension in the investigation into the murder of the autistic boy.
Selangor police chief Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said police will use the additional six days remand against the boy's parents that was granted by the magistrate's court on Friday to finalise its investigation papers for further action.
"There are inconsistencies that need to be resolved. That is why we need an additional six days. We need to investigate further and resolve any contradictions to ensure we are satisfied with the findings.
"These inconsistencies arise from both the parents' statements and other witnesses. I cannot elaborate further as the investigation is ongoing," Hussein told reporters here today.
He added that extra time was required to finalize the remaining issues, including physical evidence and the crime scene.
"In the past seven days, we have called in three people for questioning, the ex-babysitter and two family members. The outcome of the investigation in these six days will determine our next steps.
"It is still too early for me to say what will happen next. The police will complete the investigation and refer the investigation papers to the deputy public prosecutor.
" We will refer the case as soon as we are satisfied that the investigation is complete."
Asked on access for the parents to meet with lawyers, Hussein said there is always an opportunity for the parents and their legal counsel to meet.
"However, the police have the discretion to decide when this can happen during or after the remand period."
Yesterday, police obtained an extension of the remand order against the parents of the boy.
The couple's counsel Fahmi Abd Moin said magistrate Ainaa Muhamad Kamal granted the extension following the expiration of an earlier seven-day remand.
Investigations so far included the seizure of the couple's handphones as well as the recording of statements of the boy's two family members and a former babysitter
On May 31, the couple were arrested at about 11am at their family home in Puncak Alam by the Selangor Criminal Investigation Department.
On Dec 6 last year, Zayn Rayyan was found dead at a stream near Apartment Idaman, Damansara Damai, at 10pm.
The boy's body was found about 200 metres from his home by the public who participated in the search operations following a report about his disappearance.
Zayn Rayyan was confirmed to be killed based on the autopsy conducted, which found injuries to his neck and body.