THE death of a 20-year-old man with learning disabilities in Bachok is being investigated as a possible homicide, after he was found severely injured by the roadside in circumstances that have cast doubt on early suggestions of a traffic accident.
Muhammad Zakir Fikry Mohd Zainal was discovered at about 7.30am in Kampung Padang Lati in a critical condition, before succumbing to his injuries later that night in the red zone of Hospital Pakar Universiti Sains Malaysia.
A witness, Mohd Yusof Shafie, 60, said he rushed to the scene after being alerted by a fellow villager about what was initially believed to be a road accident.
"On arrival, I saw that the victim was still alive but in a critical condition, with severe head injuries and dried blood covering his face.
"The incident seemed unusual because it was said to be an accident, but the motorcycle he was riding showed no damage, while he had sustained serious injuries.
"After looking closely at his face, I knew he was not from this village, although some recognised him as he lived in a nearby area," he said when met at the scene.
He added that he was not surprised to later learn of the victim’s death, given the extent of his injuries.
Police have since confirmed that a report has been lodged, with Bachok police chief Superintendent Mohamad Ismail Jamaluddin stating that the case is being treated as murder.
The victim’s body has been sent to Hospital Raja Perempuan Zainab II for a post-mortem examination, and investigations are being carried out under Section 302 of the Penal Code.
The incident has drawn attention to the vulnerability of persons with disabilities and the need for greater safeguards, as authorities work to determine the circumstances leading to the youth’s death. - April 15, 2026
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