Defence lawyer denies family statements in Irene Sofiya case, warns against fabricated social media posts

BATU PAHAT, Oct 15 — The defence attorney for the 16-year-old accused in the Irene Sofiya murder case today denied any family statements or apologies claiming responsibility for the crime. Lawyer Mohd Azlan Shah Mohd Allias emphasized that the victim's family has remained silent throughout the investigation, releasing no statements or posts on any digital platforms.

He confirmed that any unverified information or posts circulating on social media did not stem from the family. Mohd Azlan addressed viral rumors alleging the accused's family sought an out-of-court meeting with Irene Sofiya's relatives, stating that such claims were dismissed by Irene's family on Oct 9, urging the public to stop spreading false narratives online.

The lawyer threatened to file police reports and take legal action against anyone continuing to fabricate claims or spread rumors. The case is ongoing, with the court yet to deliver a decision, and the public was advised to abide by the principle of innocence until proven guilty. Earlier, court authorities prohibited filming and photography of the minor accused under the Child Act 2001.

Irene Sofiya, a Form Four student, was discovered dead from severe blunt-force trauma inside Dewan Sri Tanjung at SMK Dato’ Seth in Yong Peng around 5.50pm on Oct 3. Police apprehended her 16-year-old classmate shortly after and recovered a 96-centimeter iron pipe and blood-stained sports attire to aid the capital murder investigation. The teenager has been in remand since Oct 4 before appearing in court today to face formal charges.