KL police investigating rapper Namewee’s connection to Taiwanese influencer’s death, now classified as murder
PETALING JAYA: Kuala Lumpur police have designated Malaysian rapper Namewee as a person of interest in the ongoing investigation into the death of Taiwanese social media personality Hsieh Yu-hsin, known online as Iris Hsieh.
Kuala Lumpur police Chief Datuk Fadil Marsus confirmed that investigators are currently working to establish the timeline of Namewee’s activities and determine his potential involvement in the case.
According to Fadil, the case has been upgraded from an initial sudden death report (SDR) to a murder investigation under Section 302 of the Penal Code following the discovery of new evidence suggesting potential criminal activity.
“We currently consider the individual who was last with the deceased to be involved in this matter. We will be requesting his assistance in the investigation. Based on our findings, we will determine whether he should be classified as a suspect,” the police chief stated during a media briefing.
The 31-year-old Hsieh was discovered deceased in a hotel bathroom on Jalan Conlay on October 22.
Malaysian rapper Wee Meng Chee, professionally known as Namewee, aged 42, was reportedly present in the same hotel room when the incident occurred.
The rapper has subsequently been charged with drug-related offences, including use and possession, and is currently released on bail.
Fadil revealed that investigators are conducting a thorough examination of the victim’s activities during her time in Malaysia. The probe encompasses her arrival details, accommodation records, CCTV footage, and transportation movements.
“Our team has recorded statements from hotel employees, security personnel, and transportation providers, including airport staff. This is an exhaustive investigation tracking every action of both the deceased and the person last seen with her,” he explained.
The police chief noted that Hsieh arrived in Malaysia on October 20 with plans for a four-day visit.
Fadil confirmed that complete post-mortem and toxicology reports are still pending. Information regarding the cause of death remains under wraps at this stage of the investigation.
“This investigation presents significant complexity, but we are committed to establishing the facts. We appeal to anyone possessing information relevant to this case to step forward and assist our officers,” he stated.
On Sunday, Namewee issued a denial regarding the drug-related allegations connected to Hsieh’s death.
Through an Instagram post, the artist expressed confidence that the truth would be revealed following the completion of the police investigation, which he estimated would take two to three months.
The case continues to develop as authorities work to piece together the circumstances surrounding the influencer’s untimely death.
