Zayn Malik's cousin tragically passes away aged five

We are saddened to report that Zayn Malik’s cousin has passed away at the age of five.

Zayn and his family have been left devastated by the death of Arshiya, who died in the early hours of this (28/3/17) morning following a brave battle with a brain tumour.

Sharing a photo of her little girl, Arshiya’s mother, Zileh, wrote on Instagram: “An angel wrote in the book of life my baby’s date of birth, then whispered as she closed the book.. ‘Too beautiful for earth’.

“R.I.P baby doll.. #keeparshiyainyourduas [sic]”.

Zayn’s younger sister, Waliyha, wrote: “Rest is peace you beautiful princess, may Allah grant you the highest rank of Jannah [sic]”.

Zayn is yet to publicly comment on his cousin’s tragic passing, but it is believed that they were incredibly close and he was constantly kept updated on her condition via the phone whilst he jetted across the globe for work.

Arshiya was diagnosed with the tumour a few years ago, with Aaroosa Malik begging for anybody with a medical background to come forward to help the family back in 2014, writing: “Doctors have given up on Arshiya but she is still fighting brave like a soldier.

“Can everyone please pray for her and anyone out there with a medical background or any doctor who thinks they can help please get in touch if possible.

“They operated on her twice. She hasn’t come round since. They thought she was brain dead but she’s not.”

Speaking out at the time, a source shared: “Zayn loves all his family to bits but is really close to Arshiya.

“He has never been off the phone since she was taken into hospital and has told his family he will be at her bedside as soon as he can.”

Zayn and his family have been inundated with love and support from his fans since news of Arshiya’s passing broke, and we are sending our deepest condolences to the family.