In a highly emotional moment, Zulkarnain Idros, 60, and Hawa Osman, 61, parents of the late naval cadet officer Zulfarhan Osman Zulkarnain, performed a prostration of gratitude after the Court of Appeal handed down its decision. The court sentenced six former students of the National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM) to death by hanging for the brutal murder of their son, which occurred seven years ago.
According to FMT, the ruling, delivered by Justice Hadhariah Syed Ismail, who chaired the panel, emphasized the severity and cruelty of the actions committed by the six men: Akmal Zuhairi Azmal, Azamuddin Sofi, Najib Razi, Afif Najmudin Azahat, Shobirin Sabri, and Hakeem Ali. Justices Zaini Mazlan and Azmi Ariffin were also part of the bench that reached the unanimous decision.
"The death sentence is warranted given the cruelty of their actions," Justice Hadhariah stated firmly.
The tragic incident took place on May 22, 2017, at UPNM's Jebat hostel, where Zulfarhan was tortured. The High Court initially tried the six for murder in 2021 but subsequently reduced the charge to culpable homicide not amounting to murder, sentencing them to 18 years in prison. However, this decision was met with public outrage, and the prosecution sought a more severe penalty.
In May, Deputy Public Prosecutor K Mangai argued for the death penalty, highlighting the need for a strong deterrent against such heinous acts. She described the torture inflicted on Zulfarhan as extreme, noting that he suffered 90 scald burns covering 80% of his body. An autopsy confirmed that these burns were the cause of death.
The Court of Appeal's decision brings a sense of closure to Zulfarhan's family, who have been tirelessly seeking justice for their son. As they knelt in gratitude, their relief and sorrow were palpable, marking the end of a long and painful journey toward justice for Zulfarhan Osman Zulkarnain.
Source: FMT
