KUALA TERENGGANU: Four Rohingya suspects detained over the alleged rape of a woman with a disability in Kemaman in August have been charged with immigration offences, while investigations into the alleged sexual offence are ongoing.
Terengganu police chief Datuk Mohd Khairi Khairudin said the investigation papers on the immigration offences had been referred to the Terengganu deputy public prosecutor's office before instructions to charge were obtained.
He said the four suspects were brought before the Kemaman Magistrates' Court on Aug 30 and were denied bail.
Another suspect detained earlier was released after police found that he had valid identification documents, he added.
"However, investigations into the rape offence under Section 376 of the Penal Code are ongoing to complete the investigation papers before they are referred back to the deputy public prosecutor's office for further instructions," he said in a statement today.
He was responding to the circulation of photographs and statements on social media questioning the progress of the case and police action.
Khairi said police understood public concern, particularly over justice for the victim, and assured that all actions were being taken based on facts and evidence gathered during the investigation.
He said prosecution for any offence must be based on the findings of an investigation, sufficient evidence and directions from the prosecution.
He stressed that investigations would continue professionally, transparently and comprehensively, with due attention given to the victim's welfare and interests.
Police received a report on Aug 7 concerning the alleged rape of a 23-year-old woman with an intellectual disability.
Police initially detained three foreign men to assist in the investigation before they were remanded for five days until Aug 12.
The case is being investigated under Section 376 of the Penal Code.
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