SEREMBAN: The body of an unknown woman was hidden in a ravine to conceal her death, says Negri Sembilan police chief Datuk Mohamad Mat Yusop.

       "Even though it was to hide the death, the offence is still being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code (for murder), to find the real cause of death but it is understood that the victim had Covid-19 at the time of death," he said.

       The body was discovered at KM14, Jalan Lama Bukit Putus Seremban-Kuala Pilah near here.

       "We will wait for progress of further investigation to ascertain the real cause of death and what charges to be levelled at the three persons who have been arrested," he told reporters after Negri Sembilan's Commemoration of the 215th Police Day here on Friday (March 25).

       On March 23, two men, aged 41 and 44, and an 18-year-old woman were remanded for seven days until March 29.

       According to Mohamad, the three suspects were related to the victim.

       In the meantime, he said at least four others, including other family members and neighbours in the area would be called to testify.

       "We have obtained some closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage," he said.

       On March 20, the body of the unidentified woman was found face down and an autopsy report was sent to the Chemistry Department to confirm her cause of death.

       Meanwhile, Seremban district police chief ACP Nanda Maarof said the investigation paper on the death of three-month-old girl Nour Rania Asyifaa Yuseri had been sent to the Deputy Public Prosecutor's office for further action.

       He said victim's father post on social media could not be used as evidence because it was only an assumption.

       "Police are conducting a thorough investigation using forensics, not only individually (on the child) but wider forensics, for more accuracy. I hope the family calms down and stops issuing statements (on social media) that may cause misunderstanding among the public," he said.

       On Feb 22, Nour Rania Asyifaa was pronounced dead at the Sendayan Health Clinic.

       She was taken to hospital by a caregiver and a child care centre. – Bernama