Aceh Besar, Aceh Bisnis — A student at Malahayati Maritime Polytechnic (Poltekpel) Aceh, Muhammad Rasya Fadilla (18), passed away at Zainoel Abidin Regional General Hospital (RSUDZA) in Banda Aceh on Sunday (27/9/2026) afternoon.
The D-III Nautical Studies student from Lhokseumawe had previously suffered from a high fever and a sore throat. His condition subsequently deteriorated after a red rash developed across his body.
Head of the Banda Aceh Police Criminal Investigation Unit, Police Commissioner Miftahuda Dizha Fezuono, stated that authorities had launched an initial investigation by visiting Malahayati Maritime Polytechnic Aceh in Mesjid Raya District, Aceh Besar, as well as RSUDZA.
According to gathered statements, the victim first underwent a medical examination at the polytechnic clinic on Saturday (26/9) at around 4:21 PM WIB. At the time, his body temperature reached 39.7 degrees Celsius, with a pulse rate of 104 beats per minute.
The victim subsequently received medical treatment and was monitored at the clinic. However, on Sunday morning, the red rash spread extensively, leading to his referral to RSUDZA at approximately 12:13 PM WIB.
“Upon arrival at RSUDZA, the victim received medical treatment. However, at 4:14 PM WIB, he was declared dead,” Dizha said.
Cause of Death Not Yet Determined
Police have coordinated with forensic doctors at RSUDZA. The victim’s body underwent an external post-mortem examination (visum et repertum) and a CT scan.
An autopsy was not performed as the family declined to give permission. Based on initial statements from the forensic doctor, the victim is suspected to have died from an illness. However, the exact cause of death is still awaiting the results of medical and forensic examinations.
The visum results are expected to be available in about seven days, while the CT scan results are anticipated by Monday (28/9).
Police will also take statements from representatives of Malahayati Maritime Polytechnic Aceh and several witnesses to complete the investigation regarding the victim’s condition prior to being referred to RSUDZA.
Muhammad Rasya Fadilla’s body was later handed over to his family to be brought to Lhokseumawe for burial.
To date, the exact cause of the student’s death remains pending the official forensic and CT scan results.