Depression believed to be factor in tragic deaths of Sri Aman couple

POLICE in Sri Aman, Sarawak, have indicated that a school headmaster’s ongoing struggle with depression may have played a role in the tragic deaths of himself and his wife at their home in Sri Aman on January 14.

Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah said that, based on statements from family members, friends, and colleagues, the headmaster had reportedly been experiencing depression since his transfer to a school in Lubok Antu, Sri Aman.

“From witness statements, it was found that the husband had recently been transferred as Headmaster to Lubok Antu. Throughout our investigation, the weapon used in this case only contained the DNA of the two victims; no foreign DNA was detected,” Mohamad Zainal told reporters following the Sarawak Police monthly assembly at the state contingent headquarters.

He added that more than 30 statements had been recorded from witnesses, including relatives, friends, colleagues, teachers, and neighbours.

“As I have mentioned before, there were no signs of forced entry, missing valuables, or robbery. Therefore, we can conclude that this incident involved only the two victims, the husband and wife. I can say the case is effectively closed,” he said.

The couple, aged 45 and 44, were found with serious injuries, with the wife also serving as a nurse. Police further confirmed that pathologists who conducted autopsies had been interviewed as part of the investigation.

“We believe there are no further investigations required except to await forensic reports on the mobile phones of both victims. This may provide additional insights to determine the true motive behind their deaths.

“We cannot fully conclude yet, as we want to confirm whether factors beyond depression were involved,” Mohamad Zainal said.

The statement underscores ongoing police efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths, with current findings pointing to an isolated domestic incident rather than any external involvement. - January 23, 2026