AGC to provide witness protection in Zara inquest, if needed

Summary

• AGC ready to protect witnesses in the Zara inquest if needed, following online threats against forensic pathologist Dr Jessie Hiu, who recently testified in the inquest.

• AG Dusuki Mokhtar stresses that threats against witnesses would not be tolerated, with one suspect already arrested.

The Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) said it is prepared to provide protection for witnesses in the inquest into the death of 13-year-old Zara Qairina Mahathir, if circumstances require it.

This comes after forensic pathologist Dr Jessie Hiu, who recently testified at the inquest, reportedly lodged a police report over online threats against her.

AG Dusuki Mokhtar said he would thoroughly review the need for such protection before making any decision, the New Straits Times reported.

However, he said that there is no pressing need for such a measure for now.

“At this stage, I do not see the necessity. But if circumstances change and protection becomes necessary, we will proceed accordingly,” he reportedly said after an event in Kota Bharu, Kelantan.

Dusuki also stressed that he would take stern action against any party making threats against witnesses involved in the inquest, adding that such a thing should never happen.

“We take such acts seriously, and I have been informed that the individual concerned was detained early this morning under Section 507 of the Penal Code.

“I remind all parties that firm action will be taken against anyone attempting to interfere with the judicial process or threaten witnesses.

“Hiu’s testimony is crucial to the inquest proceedings to reach a decision that ensures justice for all parties,” he said.

“Therefore, any form of intimidation or negative action that could endanger the lives of witnesses, including the pathologist concerned, must not be taken lightly,” he added.

‘Respect judicial process’

Dusuki expressed hope that the investigation into the individual who issued the threats would be expedited.

“I also advise all parties to be patient, as the inquest proceedings have only just begun. What we are doing is seeking justice for all parties, including the family and the victim.

“So I urge everyone to respect the judicial process and allow it to proceed to uncover the truth,” he said.

On the possibility of holding the inquest proceedings behind closed doors to protect witnesses, NST reported that Dusuki said the matter would be reviewed if necessary.

“I cannot comment at this stage as it is still too early, and we need to first assess whether there is a need. If there is a need, we will study it,” he added.

Circumstances of Zara’s death

During her testimony on Sept 3 and 4, Hiu told the Coroner’s Court that Zara’s injuries were consistent with a fall, and she was unlikely to have fallen off the third floor of her hostel by accident.

However, when asked whether Zara may have died by suicide, she said the matter is for the Coroner’s Court to decide.

Hiu’s testimony drew brickbats online, with some netizens questioning her credibility and hurling insults.

Yesterday, Dusuki reportedly said the AGC is reviewing content posted on social media regarding Zara’s death.

Zara, a student from Papar, was found injured and unconscious on school grounds on July 16. Despite being brought to the hospital, she succumbed to her injuries the next day.

The case is believed to have been linked to months of bullying, with five teenagers being charged.

The ongoing inquest is a separate court proceeding to ascertain the circumstances surrounding her death.

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