Sabah Police Suspect Animals Involved in Sepanggar Murder Case

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 22 — Sabah police are investigating the possibility that dogs or other wild animals may have carried off the missing limbs of a 44-year-aged woman who was murdered in Sepanggar, complicating ongoing search efforts. The victim was found dismembered on February 12 in Taman Indah Permai.

Search for Missing Body Parts Continues

According to Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun, investigators have yet to find any new leads in the search for the victim’s left leg and right arm. “Efforts to trace the remaining two parts of the body are continuing, but so far, we have not found any indicators,” he stated. Malay Mail reports that Dikun believes there is a “strong possibility the missing parts were taken by dogs or wild animals, or perhaps became mixed with rubbish.”

Investigation Nearing Completion

The investigation is in its final stages, with the case file expected to be submitted to the public prosecutor soon. Several arrests have been made, primarily involving family members of the main suspect, a 71-year-old man who was engaged to the victim. The suspect remains in custody. Archyde reports that a father and son have also been arrested in connection with the murder.

Motive and Background

The motive for the murder is believed to be rooted in jealousy and a dispute over RM7,000 paid as an engagement fee. The victim had ended her engagement with the suspect and married another man in January. The Star reports that the victim’s family buried her on February 13, despite her body being incomplete.

Suspect’s Condition and Ongoing Efforts

The 71-year-old suspect is currently undergoing treatment at Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Police are continuing to search for the missing body parts and the machete believed to have been used in the crime, utilizing the Forensic Unit and the K9 Unit. The victim held an IMM13 immigration pass issued to Filipino refugees in the 1970s.