Full Breakdown
Gruesome Murder Case in Sabah: Dismembered Woman Found, Father and Son Arrested
2/16/2026, 4:45:57 AM
Discovery of Dismembered Remains
On February 12, 2026, a shocking murder case unfolded in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, when garbage collectors discovered dismembered body parts of a woman in her 40s at multiple rubbish disposal sites in Indah Permai. The initial discovery occurred around 6:30 AM when a severed arm fell out of a rubbish bag. Subsequent searches led to the recovery of additional body parts, including the victim's head and torso, by 11:40 AM. The victim, who held an IMM13 immigration pass, was identified as a 44-year-old woman who had recently ended her engagement.
Arrest of Suspects
Within 24 hours of the gruesome discovery, police arrested two suspects: a 71-year-old man, believed to be the victim's former fiancé, and his 19-year-old son. The main suspect was apprehended at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where he was receiving treatment, while the son was detained later that evening at a nearby residence. Both suspects are being investigated under Section 302 of Malaysia's Penal Code for murder.
Motive Behind the Murder
Authorities have identified jealousy and disputes over engagement money as the primary motives for the murder. Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun stated that the suspect was dissatisfied after the victim ended their engagement and married another individual. Allegations surfaced that the victim had used approximately RM7,000 (S$2,260) of the suspect's money during their engagement, which may have contributed to the conflict. The police believe that an argument over these issues escalated into violence, resulting in the brutal dismemberment of the victim's body.
Eyewitness Accounts and Investigation
Witnesses reported seeing the victim running out of a house in a distressed state before being pulled back inside by a man, providing crucial information for the investigation. Forensic examinations of the recovered body parts led police to identify and locate the suspects. Items believed to be linked to the crime, including clothing and a vehicle, were seized for analysis.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Reaction
While the arrests have clarified the immediate case, police have emphasized that investigations are ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward. The brutal nature of the crime has sparked widespread shock and concern within the Sabah community, with many calling for justice for the victim.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We believe that the motive is jealousy and dissatisfaction.” — Datuk Jauteh Dikun, Sabah Police Commissioner
- “This situation is believed to have triggered an argument between the suspect and the victim, which ultimately led to the incident.” — Superintendent Syed Lot Syed Ab Rahman, Acting Kota Kinabalu District Police Chief
The case remains under investigation as authorities work to complete their findings and ensure justice is served.
