Two soldiers charged with murder of fellow private in Miri army camp

TWO soldiers have been charged with the murder of their fellow comrade at a military housing block in Miri, Malaysia. Muhammad Syarin, 23, from Kedah, and Mohamad Khuzainah, 21, from Kelantan, were formally charged in court today for the death of Private Muhammad Muqriz Aseri, 21, on March 24, at the Kem Sri Miri army barracks.

The two accused face charges under Section 302 of the Penal Code, which carries severe penalties including the death sentence or a minimum of 30 years in prison along with at least 12 strokes of whipping if convicted.

Magistrate Ashok Linggam has scheduled May 30 for the next mention of the case, pending the completion of the post-mortem report.

The incident unfolded at around 2:15 am on March 24 when Muqriz was reportedly "manhandled" by the two accused in the barracks. Following the altercation, Muqriz collapsed and was rushed to Miri Hospital, where he was declared dead at 3:05 am.

In a statement issued then, the Army confirmed it was conducting an internal investigation into the incident.

An initial post-mortem examination revealed that Muqriz’s death was caused by blunt force trauma to the chest, also known as contusio cordis. The injury, resulting from a strong impact, caused severe damage to his heart, leading to his death.

Muqriz's body was transported to Kuala Lumpur and laid to rest at the Al-Islamiah Mosque cemetery in Kampung Lindungan, Petaling Jaya, at 11:55 pm on March 26.

The case has shocked the nation, highlighting concerns over discipline and conduct within the military ranks, with both the army and the authorities continuing their investigations into the tragic death. – April 9, 2025