SHAH ALAM: Police have interviewed 34 individuals as part of their investigation into the death of a trainee from the Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Reserve Officer Training Unit (Palapes) on Nov 13.
District police chief Assistant Commissioner Mohd Iqbal Ibrahim confirmed that those interviewed included medical officers, training officers, other trainees involved, and the complainant.
"We have taken 34 statements and will summon several more individuals to complete the investigation. Once the investigation is finalised, the report will be submitted to the coroner for review. If there are criminal elements, further directions will be issued.
The case has been classified as a sudden death report (SDR), but Iqbal said that the investigation was being conducted thoroughly, including forensic and medical analyses.
"We are examining everything carefully and will not overlook any evidence," he added.
Iqbal urged the public to refrain from speculation, adding that issues of bullying, abuse, and negligence were still under investigation.
"Commenting prematurely could disrupt the investigative process," he said.
The police received the report only after the funeral arrangements had been completed, with the family reporting possible abuse and bullying two days later, on Nov 15.
Iqbal said that the police investigation was separate from the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) inquiry.
"The ATM is awaiting the police findings. If arrests or further actions are necessary, we will inform them," he said.
He also appealed to anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist in the investigation.
The case follows the tragic death of a UiTM Palapes trainee, with the victim's father alleging physical abuse.