Kuala lumpur: Police should be given space to complete their investigation into the death of student Zara Qairina Mahathir, said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. He highlighted the cooperation of the victim’s family, noting that Zara’s mother had handed over her mobile phone to the police for forensic analysis, demonstrating their trust in the authorities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi emphasized the importance of allowing the police to perform their duties without interference, especially since the Attorney General’s Chambers had instructed an exhumation of Zara Qairina’s body for a post-mortem. The Home Minister assured that this process would be conducted promptly to facilitate justice.

Fahmi also warned the public against taking matters into their own hands based on unverified information circulating on social media. He underscored that vigilantism could disrupt the investigation and lead to legal consequences. Fahmi mentioned recent amendments to the Penal Code that categorize bullying, including online harassment, as a criminal offence.

Addressing rumors and misinformation, Fahmi clarified that exaggerated claims, such as the one alleging Zara was placed in a washing machine, were false. He noted that the individual responsible for spreading this rumor had apologized.

Fahmi’s comments followed his attendance at the launch of the 2025 Federal Territory Child Protection Advocacy Programme, aimed at increasing public awareness of child abuse and neglect. Zara Qairina, 13, was pronounced dead at Queen Elizabeth I Hospital in Kota Kinabalu on July 17, after being found unconscious near her religious school’s hostel in Papar.