Yesterday, Malaysians were in mourning and shock after the body of Zayn Rayyan, a 6-year-old boy who had autism, was found near river located 200 metres from his home in Damansara Damai.
The case was first classified as sudden death (SDR) but it has since changed to murder after the post-mortem found signs of injuries on Zayn’s neck and body.
6yo M’sian autistic boy was strangled 48 hours prior
Speaking to reporters at the Petaling Jaya police headquarters last night, Bukit Aman CID director Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said the post-mortem indicated that Zayn was killed 48 hours before his body was found, reported NST.
He added that Zayn had died due to strangulation at another place before he was left near the river.
“An area spanning 300-metres was canvassed in the search for the victim and Zayn’s body was only found on the second night.
Based on that, we can surmise that the boy wasn’t killed at the site. He was killed elsewhere and his body (was) placed at the scene.
“There were indications of neck pressure, suggesting the possibility of strangulation. The autopsy also revealed defensive wounds, meaning the victim likely fought back,” he said as quoted by Harian Metro.
‘Suspect was familiar with the area’
Mohd Shuhaily said while it’s still too early to name the suspect, he said that it was probably one who knew the area well.
“For someone to be able to go there, I think the suspect is exposed to the area. From what I was told, it is not a daily passageway.
“On behalf of the parents, I am appealing to residents here. If they have witnessed anything or have any information, no matter how small, to come forward and help us uncover this case.
“This is a heinous crime and will do all we can to track down the perpetrator,” he said.