Man Fakes His Disappearance, Allegedly to Remarry in Thailand

Search for “Missing” Influencer Ends in Shocking Twist

A Malaysian automotive influencer, previously believed to be missing, has been found alive, after allegedly faking his disappearance in an elaborate plan involving his younger brother and a car dumped into a river.

The man, identified as Tengku Nizaruddin Tengku Zainudin, 38, also known as “Ija,” is believed to have fled to Thailand after submerging his pregnant wife’s car into Sungai Tui, Lenga, in Muar, Johor.

His disappearance, which began on Tuesday, 15 July 2025, triggered a large-scale search and rescue operation (SAR) involving 77 officers from multiple agencies.

Brother Filed Missing Report to Mislead Police

According to a statement issued on 19 July 2025 by Muar District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Raiz Mukhliz Azman Aziz, the case began when Ija’s younger brother, Tengku Abd Aziz Tengku Zainudin, 30, lodged a missing person report at the Lenga Police Station.

Brother Went Missing While on His Way to Repair His Vehicle

In his report, he claimed that his brother was last heard from while on his way to Muar to repair a vehicle.

The report prompted immediate search efforts, including divers scouring the river where the car was found.

However, investigators soon noticed inconsistencies in Tengku Abd Aziz’s account and began to suspect foul play.

Disappearance Was Allegedly Staged

Following this, police investigations revealed that Ija had deliberately submerged his wife’s car and fled to the neighbouring country.

His brother later confessed to helping stage the false disappearance, including pretending to participate in the search operation to deceive both the authorities and the public.

Believed to Have Gone to Thailand to Remarry

Public confusion turned to disbelief when news emerged that Ija had allegedly escaped to Thailand not only to disappear but also to allegedly enter into a new marriage, Kosmo reported.

The act of submerging the car was intended to create the illusion of drowning.

Man Has Returned to Malaysia

Despite his alleged attempt to flee, Ija has since returned to Malaysia and is said to be in safe condition.

Authorities have reiterated the importance of using police resources only for genuine emergencies and warned the public not to exploit the system for personal or criminal motives.

Both brothers have since been called in to have their statements recorded.

The police have obtained the “Order To Investigate” (OTI) from the Deputy Public Prosecutor to proceed with further investigation, Majoriti reported.

Case Investigated for False Report and Conspiracy

The case is being investigated under Section 182 of the Penal Code for providing false information to a public servant and Section 109 of the Penal Code for helping someone commit an offence.

If convicted, the offender may be sentenced to imprisonment for up to six months, a maximum fine of RM2,000, or both.

The police emphasised that filing false reports is a serious offence.

“The act of lodging a false report is a serious offence that can disrupt police duties and resources. Firm action will be taken against any individual who breaks the law.”

Featured photos courtesy of Malaysia Gazette, Mingguan Wanita and Kosmo.