Justice Nurulhuda Nur’Aini Nor said counsel acting for A Sri Mahavishnu, 42, and S Kannadasan, E Venthaan, T Devaraju and K Vikkines Varan, all aged 33, had proven reasonable doubt.

“The main issue in this case was about identity, with the defence presenting alibi notices and witnesses.

“After considering the testimony from both sides, the court finds that the defence has successfully raised reasonable doubt,” she said.

The five men were jointly charged with the murder of P Runkanaikey, 78, at a house along Jalan Rose Biru, Kampung Tebuk Pulai, Sabak Bernam, between 3.30am and 4.30am, on Aug 12, 2019.

The five men were also charged with voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapons or means to N Silamparasan, 27, by stabbing his left hand, left shoulder, and left and right legs on the same date and location, under Section 324 of the Penal Code.

The prosecution was conducted by deputy public prosecutor Heikal Ismail, while the five accused were represented by lawyers Zaleha Al-Hayat, GS Gabriel and Dinesh Muthal.