Categories: Social Media News

Malaysia’s Namewee faces drug charges following Taiwanese influencer’s death

Malaysian police have charged controversial rapper and filmmaker Namewee with drug possession following media reports that he was found in a Kuala Lumpur hotel room where a Taiwanese influencer was later discovered dead.

Advertisement

The 42-year-old celebrity, whose real name is Wee Meng Chee, was arrested on October 22 at a hotel in the city centre, police said in a statement released on Monday.

“During the search of the hotel room, police discovered nine blue pills suspected to be Ecstasy, weighing around 5.12 grams [0.18 ounce],” Kuala Lumpur police chief Fadil Marsus said in the statement obtained by This Week in Asia. “A urine screening later tested positive for amphetamine, methamphetamine, ketamine and THC,” he added, referring to the chemical compound in cannabis.

The rapper, who has denied taking or carrying drugs, was charged on October 24 under Malaysia’s Dangerous Drugs Act for possession and consumption of narcotics. He pleaded not guilty and was released on bail of 8,000 ringgit (US$1,907). Police have confirmed the next date for the case hearing is December 18.

The body of Iris Hsieh, the Taiwanese influencer, was reportedly found in the same unnamed hotel room in Kuala Lumpur.

Malaysian rapper Namewee is known for his humorous and at times controversial music videos. Photo: YouTube/Namewee

In a social media post on Sunday, Namewee denied the drug-taking allegations and speculation linking him to the influencer’s death.

Advertisement

Social Media Asia Editor

Recent News

Oppo Reno 15 Pro coming soon: Features, expected price & India launch details

The OPPO Reno15 Pro has already made headlines globally, but Indian tech enthusiasts are still…

16 hours ago

Regular services on the East-West Line to resume on Dec 8

SINGAPORE: Regular train services will resume on the East West Line (EWL) on Monday (Dec…

16 hours ago

Crypto crash plunges Trump family assets

Let us read it for you. Listen now. Your browser does not support the audio…

16 hours ago

MRT service from Bedok to Tampines, Tanah Merah to Expo to resume ahead of schedule on Dec 8

SINGAPORE - Train services between Bedok and Tampines stations, and Tanah Merah and Expo, will…

16 hours ago

Remains of Eternity C Pinoy crew member comes home

FIVE months after the MV Eternity C was attacked by Houthi rebels, the remains of…

16 hours ago

China Jet Locks Radar on Japan Plane as Tensions Simmer

Chinese fighter aircraft locked fire-control radar on Japanese military jets for the first time on…

17 hours ago