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KOTA KINABALU: The inquest into the death of 13-year-old Zara Qairina Mahathir was disrupted today after a student witness’s statement was leaked.

Lawyer Datuk Ram Singh said the witness’s personal details, including her name, address and identification number, had been circulated via WhatsApp messages.

“I spoke to the witness and I don’t think she is ready to testify today. She is feeling scared after what happened,” said Ram.

Coroner Amir Shah Amir Hassan then adjourned proceedings for the day and sternly reminded all parties to protect the identities of the children involved.

Zara Qairina was found unconscious in a drain beside her hostel at SMKA Tun Datu Mustapha in Papar in the early hours of July 16.

She was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where she was pronounced dead the following day after succumbing to her injuries.