MUAR — Police are investigating influencer Tengku Nizaruddin, or Ija, and his brother for allegedly staging a fake disappearance and misleading authorities.

Muar police chief ACP Raiz Mukhliz said the 38-year-old reportedly sank his wife’s car in Sungai Tui before fleeing abroad, while his brother pretended to search for him to mislead police.

Over 70 officers were deployed in a four-day search, which uncovered inconsistencies in their statements. Both have been questioned, with the case under Sections 182 and 109 of the Penal Code for giving false information and abetment.

Conviction could mean up to six months’ jail, a RM2,000 fine, or both. Police warned such false reports drain resources and disrupt real emergencies.