FAMILY OF RMN SAILOR DEMANDS FULL DISCLOSURE OVER HIS DEATH
RMN says duo vomited, had breathing problems before collapsing
TWO sailors died in the detention unit of the Royal Malaysian Navy’s communications station in Sungai Wangi, Sitiawan, on Friday.
The duo, Mohd Baihaqy Nik Mat, 28, and Muhammad Lailatulman Mohd Sukri, 26, died after complaining of exhaustion after undergoing physical training.
“The two had complained of exhaustion after undergoing physical training (in accordance) with the standard operating procedure (SOP). They were told to rest and were returned to the detention unit,” RMN said in a statement yesterday.
It said the duo, both able rates, had vomited and appeared to have breathing difficulties before collapsing. They were given treatment but were pronounced dead by paramedics at 3.15pm.
State Criminal Investigation Department chief Datuk Gan Tian Khee said both men were undergoing disciplinary action because they had failed to turn up for work.
He said Baihaqy was on a 45day detention after being found guilty in military proceedings under Section 58 of the Armed Forces Act 1972 for failure to perform duties, while Lailatulman had failed to report for duty without prior leave approval.
“However, Baihaqy was under investigation for suspected drug abuse, pending a report from the Chemistry Department, while Lailatulman was temporarily detained there since Thursday and was due to be sent to Kuala Lumpur for further action.”
He said the deceased, both from Kelantan, were not friends and served in different units.
The case, he said, had been initially classified as “sudden death”, pending post-mortem reports and further investigations.
Baihaqy’s family demanded full disclosure of the circumstances leading to, and the cause of, his death.
His widow, Noor Bazlin Mohammad, 28, is incredulous over the official account of the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Baihaqy and Lailatulman.
“I find it peculiar that both of them experienced breathing difficulties (as reported) at the same time.
“While we (the family) accept their deaths as fate, we will not remain silent if (it is discovered that a) criminal element (was involved).
“(We) would be ready to take action,” said Noor Bazlin at Permaisuri Raja Bainun Hospital’s forensics unit yesterday.
The mother of three, who works at a government clinic in Kuala Lumpur, said Baihaqy had called her at 11.40pm on Wednesday saying that he would be detained for reporting late for duty for the second time.
“He asked me not to worry about him, and to take care of our children.
“He asked if I could visit him in Lumut.
“I was informed of Baihaqy’s detention by an RMN officer via a telephone call.
“I told the officer to think about his (Baihaqy’s) children, who are young.
“My worst fear has become reality,” said Noor Bazlin, whose youngest child is 10 months.
She said she last met Baihaqy when he was on a week’s leave beginning Sept 17.