KUALA LUMPUR — Selongor police have reclassified the case of firefighter Muhammad Adib Mohd Kassim, who was injured during the Seafield Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam temple riots on November 27, from attempted murder to murder.

Muhammad Adib died on Monday (Dec 17) night at the National Heart Institute (IJN). 

Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said he was saddened to hear about the firefighter's death.

“I am very sad to receive this news. May his soul be placed among the righteous. Condolences to Muhammad Adib’s family on his passing away,” he said via his official Twitter account.

Muhammad Adib was critically injured during the November 27 riot at the Seafield Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam temple.

After about three weeks of fighting for his life, the firefighter’s condition was reported to be improving. He had been taken off life support and was able to nod his head. But his condition took a turn for the worse on Monday and he died at 9.41pm.

Selangor deputy police chief Deputy Commissioner Datuk Ab Rashid Ab Wahab said in a statement: “We have reclassified it from Section 307 of the Penal Code for attempted murder to Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder."

Muhammad Adib, who was hospitalised for  21 days before he succumbed to his injuries, was engaged and due to be married this month. 

His family members had been by his side since this morning, and were present when the 24-year-old passed away.

According to a Housing and Local Government Ministry spokesman, Muhammad Adib's body will be brought back to his home state of Kedah in accordance with his family's wishes. AGENCIES