A pair of 19-year-olds have been formally charged in court over the tragic death of a 20-year-old university student at a condominium in Cyberjaya. The case, which has shocked many across Malaysia, may result in the accused facing capital punishment.
Young Couple Brought to Court
On 10 July 2025, M. Sri Darvien, an odd-job worker, and his girlfriend D. Thineswary, both aged 19, appeared before the Sepang Magistrate’s Court. They were charged in connection with the death of Maniishapriet Kaur Akhara, a Bachelor of Physiotherapy student enrolled at the University of Cyberjaya.
The two teenagers stood quietly in the courtroom as the charges were read to them. No pleas were recorded during the proceedings, which will be transferred to the High Court at a later date.
Alleged Timeline and Charges
According to court documents, Darvien is accused of committing the murder between 9:11pm and 11:31pm on 23 June 2025, while Thineswary is alleged to have abetted the crime earlier the same day at approximately 12:30pm. Both incidents reportedly took place at Block A of the Mutiara Ville condominium.
Darvien faces a charge under Section 302 of the Penal Code, which carries the death penalty. If the death penalty is not imposed, he could face 30 to 40 years in prison along with a minimum of 12 strokes of the cane. Thineswary has been charged under Section 109, read together with Section 302, which carries identical penalties upon conviction.
Case Gains Public Attention
The courtroom was filled with tension as Deputy Public Prosecutor Raja Zaizul Faridah Raja Zaharudin requested time to complete forensic and post-mortem reports. She also confirmed that bail would not be offered, given the severity of the charge.
The defence lawyers for both accused called for an expedited transfer to the High Court, citing the intense public interest in the case. However, the magistrate ruled that relevant documents must first be served before any transfer can proceed. The next court date has been scheduled for 11 September 2025.
Victim Found With Head Injuries and Missing Belongings
Maniishapriet Kaur was discovered in her unit on 24 June by a concerned friend. She had been alone as her housemates had returned home for the holiday period. Initial investigations revealed no signs of forced entry or sexual assault. However, the victim’s belongings—including a laptop, mobile phone, and bank card—were missing.
The post-mortem examination determined that the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head. Authorities have since treated the case as a suspected homicide.
Justice Awaited as Investigation Continues
As the legal process unfolds, friends and family of the victim are calling for justice. The case has stirred widespread discussion about youth violence, safety in residential areas, and the mental well-being of students living away from home.
Police investigations are ongoing, and both suspects remain in custody. If convicted, the teen couple could face severe penalties, including the possibility of death by hanging, depending on the court’s final judgement.
Image Source: New Straits Times (left and Right Featured Image)