A heartbreaking investigation is unfolding in Malaysia after an 11-year-old boy died and his two younger brothers were hospitalized following what authorities say involved liquid methadone.
On Wednesday, Feb. 11, Selangor Police confirmed in a translated statement shared on Facebook that three children were taken to Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin Hospital in Kajang, about 17 miles south of Kuala Lumpur, earlier that morning.
Police said they were notified around 9 a.m. local time by a medical officer at the hospital. According to local outlet The Straits Times, the children had arrived at the hospital around 7:50 a.m.
Tragically, the 11-year-old boy was pronounced dead. His two brothers, aged 5 and 9, are currently being treated in the intensive care unit and remain in critical condition, police confirmed.
Malaysian news agency Bernama reported that Selangor Police Chief Datuk Shazeli Kahar confirmed a 35-year-old suspect had been detained in Kajang.
“Yes, I confirm that one child has died while two others are receiving treatment at a hospital,” he said, according to the agency.
Authorities allege the boys were given methadone at a home in Sungai Ramal Buru. In a subsequent statement, Selangor Police confirmed that the children’s parents, aged 35 and 44, have both been arrested in connection with the case.
According to Malaysian newspaper Berita Harian, investigators are now examining the motive and how the methadone was obtained as the probe continues.
Methadone is a powerful opioid medication. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is typically prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain requiring long-term management. It is also used under strict medical supervision as part of treatment programs for opioid use disorder.
Authorities have not yet released further details about the circumstances surrounding the incident. Selangor Police did not immediately respond to additional requests for comment as the investigation remains ongoing.
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