Cops launch murder probe over Thaqif's death

The death of Mohd Thaqif Amin Mohd Gaddafi, 11, is now being probed for murder.

Inspector-general of police Khalid Abu Bakar said this in a tweet today, in which he also extended his condolences to Mohd Thaqif's family. 

"The case of Thaqif Amin - PDRMsia extends its condolences to the family of the child and has reclassified the probe into the case under Section 302 for murder," he said, referring to the Penal Code.

Khalid further said that the police would obtain the full medical report and wrap up their investigations as soon as possible. 

This follows Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak's Twitter post earlier today, urging the police to expedite the probe into the death of Mohd Thaqif, who died this afternoon due to injuries believed to have been sustained due to abuse by an assistant school warden at a religious school.

“Sad to receive the news about the passing of Mohd Thaqif in Hospital Sultan Ismail, Johor Bahru. I extend my condolences to his family,” he said.

Both legs amputated

Mohd Thaqif's case had captured the nation's attention after it was reported that both his legs had to be amputated after the blood cells and tissues were destroyed by bacterial infection.

His right hand had turned black as well, while blood clots appeared on his left shoulder. Doctors had expressed concern that his arm might have to be amputated as well.

However, Mohd Thaqif passed away at around 2pm.

Politicians from both sides of the divide have expressed their sadness and condolences over his demise.

Police have detained the assistant warden and secured a remand order that is set to expire on Saturday.

Mohd Thafiq's aunt, Dzuraidah Ahmad, 38, said the family would leave it to the police to determine if the deceased had been the victim of abuse.

“If it is true, then we will fight for justice.

“Prior to this, he (Mohd Thafiq) was always healthy, and has never been hospitalised. He was also active in playing football,” she was quoted as saying by Sinar Harian.

MP: Close school pending probe

In a media statement issued this evening, Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah) Johor chief Aminolhuda Hassan revealed that he was present at the hospital when Mohd Thafiq breathed his last.

“Around 1.55pm, sadness enveloped (the room) when the life support machine showed that he had returned to his maker, and as a father, this affected me.

“It was sad to witness his remains, the small frame...

“My intention of visiting the hospital was to give at least a glimmer of hope, but my intention did not materialise,” he said.

Meanwhile, Klang MP Charles Santiago said the authorities should not wait until investigations are over to shut down the school.

"As a response to the abuse, a coalition representing tahfiz schools in Malaysia has urged the public to wait for the outcome of police investigations instead of putting the blame on the learning institution.

"This is downright reckless... The school must be shut pending a thorough investigation into the abuse of not just (the deceased) but all other kids as well.

"We simply cannot afford to stand by as mute spectators anymore," he said.- Mkini