Controversial Malaysian rapper Namewee has been remanded in custody in connection with the death of a Taiwanese influencer found dead in a Kuala Lumpur hotel bathtub two weeks ago. Police say Namewee, 42, was the last person seen with 31-year-old Iris Hsieh. She was in Malaysia to discuss a commercial video that Namewee was set to direct, according to her social media manager.
Namewee, who denies charges of illegal drug use and possession, which led to his initial bail, has been taken back into custody to assist in the investigation after police reclassified her death as murder. He turned himself in early on Wednesday, his lawyer stated, and has been placed on remand for six days.
The case has developed with several twists as Namewee reportedly contacted emergency services upon finding Hsieh unresponsive in the bathroom of his hotel room. Following this, police arrested him after discovering nine blue pills, believed to be ecstasy, in the room. Despite his denial of drug usage, Namewee tested positive for multiple illicit substances, including amphetamines and methamphetamine.
On Monday, Namewee pleaded not guilty to the drug charges and was released on bail, only to be re-arrested as investigations continued. He has publicly maintained his innocence throughout and criticized local media coverage. Notably, Hsieh had previously featured in Namewee's music video for 'China Reggaeton.'
The case has garnered substantial media attention and public interest, especially given Namewee's history of courting controversy through his music. Known for his edgy and satirical style, Namewee first gained notoriety in 2007 and has consistently stirred debate with his works, including topics that challenge cultural sensitivities.
Iris Hsieh, who held some influence online, was referred to as the 'nurse goddess' and was known for her provocative social media presence. Her sudden death raises significant questions about her activities prior to the tragedy, particularly her interaction with the high-profile rapper. As investigations continue, the public awaits further details relating to both Namewee and Hsieh's connection.
Namewee, who denies charges of illegal drug use and possession, which led to his initial bail, has been taken back into custody to assist in the investigation after police reclassified her death as murder. He turned himself in early on Wednesday, his lawyer stated, and has been placed on remand for six days.
The case has developed with several twists as Namewee reportedly contacted emergency services upon finding Hsieh unresponsive in the bathroom of his hotel room. Following this, police arrested him after discovering nine blue pills, believed to be ecstasy, in the room. Despite his denial of drug usage, Namewee tested positive for multiple illicit substances, including amphetamines and methamphetamine.
On Monday, Namewee pleaded not guilty to the drug charges and was released on bail, only to be re-arrested as investigations continued. He has publicly maintained his innocence throughout and criticized local media coverage. Notably, Hsieh had previously featured in Namewee's music video for 'China Reggaeton.'
The case has garnered substantial media attention and public interest, especially given Namewee's history of courting controversy through his music. Known for his edgy and satirical style, Namewee first gained notoriety in 2007 and has consistently stirred debate with his works, including topics that challenge cultural sensitivities.
Iris Hsieh, who held some influence online, was referred to as the 'nurse goddess' and was known for her provocative social media presence. Her sudden death raises significant questions about her activities prior to the tragedy, particularly her interaction with the high-profile rapper. As investigations continue, the public awaits further details relating to both Namewee and Hsieh's connection.
