The death of Mohammad Naim Mustaqim Mohamad Sobri, 16, allegedly at the hands of seniors at the Royal Military College (RMC) recently should not be politicised, said Defence Minister Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said the Armed Forces had taken appropriate actions, including reporting the incident to the police, transferring an officer from the college, looking into the well-being of Mohammad Naim's parents and taking measures to prevent a recurrence.

NONE Certain quarters tried to make an issue out of the incident in order to gain political mileage, he told reporters after visiting Mohammad Naim's parents at his grandmother’s home in Kampung Baru, Siong near Baling today.

Five students were arrested in connection with the case. One of them was expelled from the RMC while four others were suspended pending investigations into the case.

Ahmad Zahid spent nearly an hour talking to the victim's parents, Mohd Sobri Sopian, 41, and Fauziah Abd Wahab, 45.

Meanwhile, Mohd Sobri said he appreciated Ahmad Zahid's visit and willingness to listen to their problems as they still had difficulty in coming to terms with the incident.

"I am grateful that the government and the Defence Ministry had taken appropriate action and I hope those responsible will be punished," he said.

Fauziah, who is still traumatised by the incident, thanked all those who had assisted the family after the incident.

- Bernama