GEORGE TOWN: T. Nhaveen, the victim of a vicious assault at the hands of a group of teenagers on Saturday, has died.
The 18-year-old was pronounced dead at the Penang Hospital’s intensive care unit at 6pm today.
Nhaveen died without regaining consciousness.
His death was confirmed by Northeast District police chief Assistant Commissioner Anuar Omar.
Nhaveen had been declared ‘brain dead’ ever since he was subjected to a horrific physical and sexual assault at the hands of his tormentors.
At 2.20am on On Saturday, Nhaveen and his friend T. Previin, were buying burgers at a stall when they encountered two people, who were Nhaveen’s former classmates.
The two taunted Nhaveen and called him names, including ‘pondan’ (sissy).
Nhaveen pleaded with the two to stop taunting him, and warned them to back off. However, the two then called their friends to the scene.
The group then began assaulting Nhaveen and Previin.
Previin escaped but Nhaveen was dragged to a field and was further assaulted. The group, aged 16 to 20, allegedly inserted a blunt object into Nhaveen's anus.
The five suspects are currently investigated for rioting under Section 148 of the Penal Code.
Northeast district police chief Assistant Commissioner Anuar Omar however said police would recommend that the case be investigated under Section 377CA of the Penal Code since there is evidence of forced insertion of an object into the victim’s anus.
Section 377CA refers to sexual connection by object and carries a minimum five-year and maximum 30-year jail term and whipping.
Nhaveen’s case has since garnered attention on social media, with Malaysians expressing an outpouring of sympathy towards him and his family.
A candlelight vigil held outside at the compound of the Penang Hospital last night to pray for the teen’s recovery drew more than 200 people.