KUALA LUMPUR,April — The Magistrates’ Court in Kota Kinabalu has ordered a psychiatric evaluation for a 71-year-old man accused of murdering and dismembering his ex-fiancée, in a case that has shocked the nation due to its extreme brutality.
The accused, identified as Piluta Samad, will be sent for 30 days of psychiatric observation at Hospital Mesra Bukit Padang to determine his mental fitness to stand trial. The order was granted following an application by the defence during court proceedings.
The application was made by defence counsel Ram Singh, who raised concerns over the accused’s mental condition based on his behaviour and statements.
Magistrate Dzul Elmy Yunus approved the request despite objections from the prosecution, emphasizing the importance of determining whether the accused is mentally fit to face trial.
The evaluation period may be extended if psychiatrists require more time for a comprehensive assessment.
The accused is facing charges under Section 302 of the Penal Code, which carries the death penalty or imprisonment of up to 40 years upon conviction.
He is alleged to have killed his 44-year-old ex-fiancée, Hamidah Husin, on February 11, 2026, at a residence in Kampung Sri Kenangan, Jalan Sepanggar.
Investigators later discovered disturbing evidence, including:
- The victim’s body being dismembered
- Remains packed into bags
- Disposal of body parts in multiple rubbish bins across the area
The case has been described as one of the most disturbing criminal incidents reported in Sabah in recent years.
Authorities are still awaiting critical forensic reports, including:
- Post-mortem analysis
- Chemical examination reports
These documents are expected to provide crucial evidence in establishing the exact cause of death and supporting the prosecution’s case.
The court has fixed the next mention date for May 15, 2026, while the accused remains in custody.
The psychiatric evaluation will determine whether the accused is legally fit to stand trial.
Under Malaysian legal procedure:
- If declared fit, the case proceeds in the High Court
- If unfit, the accused may undergo treatment or alternative legal handling
Such assessments are standard in cases where mental health concerns are raised, particularly in serious violent crimes.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the case may have stemmed from personal disputes and emotional conflict, although authorities have not confirmed a definitive motive.
Police continue to investigate whether any additional factors contributed to the incident.
The case has drawn widespread public attention due to:
- The brutality of the crime
- The elderly age of the suspect
- The method of disposing of the victim’s remains
It has also sparked broader discussions about:
- Mental health awareness in violent crime cases
- Early warning signs in toxic relationships
- Strengthening community safety mechanisms
As the case proceeds, the psychiatric evaluation will play a critical role in shaping the legal direction of the trial.
With forensic reports still pending, authorities are expected to continue building the prosecution’s case while ensuring due legal process is followed.
The next court hearing in May is expected to provide further developments in this high-profile and deeply disturbing case.
