Advertising

The Seattle Times Company

NWjobs | NWautos | NWhomes | NWsource | Free Classifieds | seattletimes.com

The Seattle Times

Nation & World


Our network sites seattletimes.com | Advanced

Originally published October 2, 2008 at 10:35 PM | Page modified October 2, 2008 at 10:35 PM

E-mail article     Print view      Share:    Digg     Newsvine

Malaysian couple killed in stop-smoking ritual

Relatives beat a Malaysian couple to death in a ritual apparently meant to help the man to stop smoking, police said Friday.

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia —

Relatives beat a Malaysian couple to death in a ritual apparently meant to help the man to stop smoking, police said Friday.

The couple died of head injuries after being beaten with broomsticks and motorbike helmets during a family gathering at a Kuala Lumpur home Wednesday, said Ku Chin Wah, head of the city's crime investigations department.

One of the couple's sons and three other relatives remain in custody. Four other detained family members have been released, Ku said.

According to those detained, a nephew suggested the beating ritual after the man said he could not stop smoking and the woman complained of a liver ailment, Ku said.

It is not clear who was responsible for the deaths, but local media reported that the nephew convinced all the members of the Muslim family to beat each other.

The couple's 15-year-old niece, also injured in the beating ritual, has been hospitalized, Ku said. Several others, including the couple's children, who are 14, 19 and 21 years old, also suffered injuries.

Police are still investigating the case. Local media reported the families are believed to have joined a cult recently, but that could not be immediately confirmed.

Copyright © 2008 The Seattle Times Company

First key vote today on Senate health bill

Conflicting blast reports reflect fear in Pakistan

Genetics anti-bias law takes effect

Senate panel reveals more troubling e-mails from Fort Hood suspect

Floods ravage UK region

Advertising

Video

LA Galaxy's David Beckham
Los Angeles Galaxy's David Beckham talks about the upcoming MLS Cup final during after a team practice.

Real Salt Lake's Kyle Beckerman
MLS trophy arrives in Seattle
Chittenden Locks Inspection
Full interview with New Moon actors
Interview with New Moon actors
Artistic Roller Skating
Girls Soccer: Mercer Island vs. Glacier Peak
Smash Putt! Miniature Golf
Opening day at Crystal Mountain
Marketplace

nwautos

2009's most fuel-efficient sedansnew
Choosing a new sedan? Weigh the impact of your choice on your wallet and on the planet.
Post a comment

Open Houses

Find this weekend's open house listings.
Or search by location:
Advertising