TAWAU: Police have arrested six men, including a 16-year-old teenager, in connection with a riot that took place in Kampung Kuala Merotai Besar on Oct 26.
The incident occurred around 10.30 pm when a 19-year-old man was attacked by a group of men while on his way home after dropping off his girlfriend.
According to Tawau OCPD ACP Jasmin Hussin, the victim’s vehicle was blocked by several unidentified individuals in the village. The victim was then pulled from his car and assaulted by the group without any apparent reason.
“The victim managed to identify one of the suspects before filing a report at the Bombalai Police Station,” Jasmin said.
Following the report, policemen from the Bombalai Police Station launched a manhunt in the Kampung Merotai area, leading to the arrest of all six suspects at 4.05 pm on Oct 27.
The suspects, all local men aged between 16 and 21, are believed to have been involved in the incident.
“Preliminary investigations suggest the incident stemmed from a misunderstanding between the victim and the group of suspects, which escalated into a fight,” Jasmin added.
All suspects have been remanded to assist investigations under Section 148 of the Penal Code for rioting and Section 447 for criminal trespass.
Jasmin stressed that the police will not compromise with any party involved in violent actions or disturbing public order.
Members of the public with any information on criminal activities in their areas are urged to contact the police immediately. – James Leong
