KUALA LUMPUR: A day after the parents of Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matiin were released on bail, the couple’s lawyers said they do not rule out seeking extra police protection for them, Malaysiakini reported on Friday.
Lawyer Fahmi Abd Moin, who represents Zayn Rayyan’s father, Zaim Ikhwan Zahari, said he is closely monitoring the situation and considering additional protection in case of a potential threat to his client.
“So far we are monitoring the situation, and if things become serious with possibilities of danger to my client, I will discuss (further) with my client,” Fahmi was quoted as saying.
Zayn Rayyan Murder Case: Leaked Investigation Documents
When asked if additional police protection was needed, Fahmi said it might be necessary due to the high profile of the case.
This comes after the leak of alleged police investigation documents by whistleblower ‘Edisi Siasat’, less than 24 hours after the couple pleaded not guilty to charges of negligence that could have resulted in physical harm to their son.
Safety Concerns for Mother
Meanwhile, lawyer Mahmud Jumaat, who represents Zayn Rayyan’s mother, Ismanira Abdul Manaf, said he would consider seeking extra protection for her because he is concerned about her physical safety and her mental well-being.
“I’m not just worried about her (physical) safety, but also mental pressure. She is being shamed in such a manner, when we don’t even know the authenticity of the (leaked) investigation papers,” he was quoted as saying by the news portal.
Legal Implications and Challenges
Any speculation made against his client has been charged could be considered as contempt of court or sub judice, Mahmud also said.
The couple is accused of neglecting and potentially causing physical injury to their six-year-old son, Zayn Rayyan.
The charges were framed under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001 and Section 34 of the same Act and carry a maximum fine of RM50,000 or imprisonment of up to 20 years, or both, if found guilty.
Zayn Rayyan Parents’ Arrest and Remand
Police arrested the couple on May 31 in Puncak Alam, Selangor. They were remanded in custody for 13 days from June 1 to assist investigations into the murder under Section 302 of the Penal Code.