A life is lost yet again to a devastating tragedy.
Autopsy results on a 38-year-old woman whose remains was found stuffed in a water drum and buried in a lemongrass field in Bandar Penawar, Johor has revealed other injuries.
According to Datuk Md Yusof Ahmad, Senior Assistant Commissioner of the Johor Criminal Investigations Department, the injuries include bruises in several parts of the victim's body. He added on to say that the police were still waiting for the full autopsy report to be released by the hospital.
"Preliminary reports of the autopsy revealed bruises on the victim's body. Also detected were several metal fragments believed to be pellets from an air rifle on several parts of her body including the chest and abdomen. She was believed to have been shot at close range. The hospital will also take DNA samples from the victim's family as they were unable to identify the woman due to the condition of the remains," he said.
The woman, a housewife, was shot dead by her husband with an air rifle at their home in Taman Saujana, Kota Tinggi on Monday. Datuk Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, Johor Police chief stated a misunderstanding erupted between the couple in the incident that took place at 2:00 AM during which the wife had asked him for a divorce.
It was reported that the 43-year-old suspect had allegedly shot his wife when she was asleep. He then wrapped the victim in a blanket before placing her remains in a water drum. The remains were then taken to a farm in Bandar Penawar, about 10 kilometres away from their residence and was then buried in a lemongrass field.
The couple married for eight years have two little children, aged three and four. The incident took place while their children were still asleep. The two are now under the care of the deceased's family.
Apart from the suspect, a 32-year-old male acquaintance of the wife was also detained to assist in the investigation. The case is being investigated for murder and also under Section 36 of the Arms Act 1960 for owning a shotgun apart from an air rifle.
Our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family of the victim. May strength comfort you during this difficult time of grief. To the victim, may your dear soul rest in peace.
The cases of domestic abuse have been on the rise amid the pandemic. Some lives have been lost while some still continue to live in fear of what may become. Should you or anyone you know fall victim to domestic abuse, please remember that you're not alone and that there are people out there who are willing to help. Kindly reach out to these organisations or the authorities should you need help:
The nearest police station in your area
Women's Aid Organisation (WAO): 03 3000 8858 | TINA: 018 988 8058 (WhatsApp)
Talian Kasih: 15999
All Women's Action Society (AWAM): 016 237 4221
WCC Penang: 011 3108 4001 / 016 428 7265
Source: NST