November 6, 2024
KUALA LUMPUR – An overbearing “joke” or a gag gone wrong has been identified as a possible motive behind the alleged bullying and abuse of a Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM) cadet.
Kuala Lumpur police chief Comm Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa said initial investigation showed that the incident, which involved a junior cadet and his senior, was spontaneous and not motivated by bullying.
He added that no arrests have been made following statements taken from both the victim and suspect.
“Based on the investigation, both boys were talking to each other during the incident.
“One of them had asked whether the other had ever tried it (placing an iron on his chest).
“We did not discover any elements of revenge or fighting between both boys. It did not involve others.
“Such action is dangerous and we believe it is more of a joke gone wrong or an overbearing joke. Such spontaneous joking around should not happen,” he told reporters after attending a talk on sexual crimes and online scams in Kepong on Tuesday (Nov 5).
Comm Rusdi said the investigation was almost completed after police recorded the statements of 16 individuals including cadet officers, coaches, roommates and those who recorded the incident.
“We have completed the investigation but we are still waiting for the medical report on the junior cadet.
“We have also referred the investigation paper to the Attorney-General’s Chambers today,” he said.
It was reported that the police have launched an investigation into the alleged bullying and abuse of a UPNM cadet by a senior.
The investigation commenced following a police report lodged by the 20-year-old victim at about 8.23pm on Friday (Nov 1).
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain had said an investigation is being conducted under Section 324 of the Penal Code.
“The report indicated that the incident occurred at a UPNM dorm room at 11.45pm on Oct 22.
“The fourth year senior had asked the victim to iron his clothing.
“Suddenly, the 22-year-old senior took the iron, which was held by the victim, before putting it on the victim’s chest,” he said.
The IGP said the victim was shocked and shouted after suffering from burns.
“During the incident, several seniors were also in the dorm room.
“We have recorded the statement of the complainant at Cheras distinct police headquarters,” he said.
The complainant was also asked to seek treatment at a hospital to verify the injuries he suffered, he said.
In a statement on Oct 30, the Armed Forces said it was investigating a case where a UPNM cadet was allegedly bullied and tortured by a senior.
A video of the incident went viral, showing a student pressing a hot iron against another’s chest