Three individuals have provided statements to assist in the investigation into the boat capsizing incident that occurred off the coast of Pulau Perhentian last Saturday, which tragically claimed three lives. Terengganu Police Chief Datuk Mohd Khairi Khairuddin confirmed that two men and a woman, aged between 22 and 39, were questioned as part of efforts to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“We have obtained statements from one of the passengers, the boat skipper, and the skipper’s brother. Additional witnesses will be called in to support the ongoing investigation,” he said.
“All survivors will be asked to provide their accounts so we can establish a clear and accurate picture of what actually happened. Many of the details currently being circulated are based on hearsay. Through this investigation, we hope to uncover further evidence,” he said during the handover ceremony for the state deputy police chief held at the Terengganu police headquarters (IPK) today.
During the ceremony, Terengganu Criminal Investigation Department Chief ACP Arsad Kamaruddin was officially appointed as the acting Deputy Police Chief of the state, succeeding Datuk Wan Rukman Wan Hassan, who retired upon reaching the mandatory retirement age.
Mohd Khairi stated that police are currently in the process of finalizing the investigation papers for the case, which are expected to be completed within a week.
He explained that the police investigation is centered on the incident itself, specifically to determine if any criminal elements were involved. Matters related to boat regulations or licensing, he added, fall under the responsibility of the Marine Department.
In the tragic incident that occurred at 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, S. Arumugam, 40, his three-year-old daughter A. Sarrvihka, and a 10-year-old relative, V. Vennpani, lost their lives. Two others sustained injuries, while ten passengers managed to survive.
The victims were among a group of passengers, aged between three and 40, who were returning from Pulau Perhentian Kecil to Pulau Perhentian Besar after having dinner. During the journey, their boat was suddenly hit by strong waves, causing it to overturn.
Besut Police Chief Supt Azamuddin Ahmad@Abu confirmed that the boat skipper tested positive for drug use and has five previous records related to drug offences.
Speaking to Bernama today, Azamuddin said the 22-year-old suspect is currently being held in remand to assist with investigations under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, and is expected to be charged in court tomorrow.
Source: Malay Mail
