KUALA LUMPUR — The University of Cyberjaya has suspended two students believed to be linked to the murder investigation of 20-year-old physiotherapy undergraduate Maniishapriet Kaur Akhara.
In a statement today, the university said the suspensions took effect early Friday and were in line with its zero-tolerance policy towards safety breaches.
“We are deeply saddened by the recent events and are taking firm, immediate steps to ensure our community feels protected and supported,” said Vice Chancellor Professor Dr David Whitford.
The move comes a day after police confirmed the arrest of three individuals — two women and a man aged between 19 and 20 — in connection with Maniishapriet’s death. All three are currently under a seven-day remand order until July 3 to assist with investigations.
They were apprehended in separate operations across Johor Bahru and Gemencheh, Negeri Sembilan, less than 48 hours after the case was reported. Police said the suspects are believed to have been known to the victim.
The case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder.
Maniishapriet, originally from Kuching, Sarawak, was found unconscious in her university-managed condominium unit at Mutiara Ville, Cyberjaya, at 10.28am on Tuesday. She was pronounced dead shortly after police arrived at the scene.
Preliminary investigations revealed no signs of forced entry, and a post-mortem confirmed that she died from blunt force trauma to the head. Police also reported that several of her belongings — including a laptop, mobile phone, ATM card, and cash — were missing.
At the time of the incident, she was alone in the unit as her five housemates had returned home for the semester break on June 21.
The case has sparked public concern over student safety in higher education residences.
Speaking at her cremation on Thursday, Maniishapriet’s uncle, Datuk Rajpal Singh, criticised the lack of security at the accommodation, noting the apparent absence of basic measures such as closed-circuit cameras.
“We are baffled that this occurred in university-managed accommodation. A life is now lost,” he said. “We believe the university must improve security to safeguard students’ wellbeing.”
In response to the incident, the University of Cyberjaya has implemented enhanced security measures at off-campus student residences, including the deployment of additional security personnel and increased patrols.
The university also urged the public to refrain from speculation or spreading unverified information, pledging full cooperation with authorities and a commitment to providing verified updates as investigations continue.
Police enquiries remain ongoing. — June 28, 2025