SEMPORNA: Three separate assault cases were reported in eastern Sabah within 48 hours, all involving local male suspects who have been detained by police.
In Semporna, a 43-year-old man was arrested for allegedly injuring his wife at a homestay in Kampung Bangau-Bangau.
Semporna OCPD Supt Tan Hiap Wah said acting on Op Cantas intelligence, a CID team detained the suspect on Feb 11.
The 42-year-old victim, a housewife, lodged a police report on Feb 9 claiming her husband punched her in the face following an argument involving another woman who was with the suspect at the time. She sustained injuries to her face and mouth.
The suspect will be remanded for investigation. The case is being investigated under Section 323 of the Penal Code for voluntarily causing hurt, read together with Section 326A for the same offence against a spouse.
If convicted, Section 323 provides up to one year’s imprisonment, a maximum RM2,000 fine, or both. When read with Section 326A, the court may impose double the maximum penalty. The suspect has no prior criminal record.
Tan stressed that domestic violence is treated seriously and no compromise will be given to those who commit violence against spouses or family members.
The public is advised to resolve disputes amicably and not take the law into their own hands. Information on criminal incidents can be channelled to the Semporna District Police for further action.
In Tawau, two separate cases were reported on Feb 10.
In the first incident, a mechanic was injured after being shot with a slingshot using iron pellets in Kampung Kongsi 8. The victim had been called to repair a motorcycle but refused to work due to unpaid wages. The 32-year-old suspect became aggressive and shot the victim’s left leg, causing the pellet to pierce through. The victim underwent surgery at a hospital.
Police arrested the suspect at the scene. He has 11 prior criminal records, including crimes and drug-related offences. The case is being investigated under Sections 324 and 506 of the Penal Code.
In the second incident, a 25-year-old man was detained after going on a rampage and hitting his younger brother in Kampung Langsat, Merotai Besar. He also threatened to burn down his mother’s house. Police seized a 28cm knife at the scene.
The suspect has prior convictions, including under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. The case is being investigated under Sections 506 and 323 of the Penal Code.
Tawau OCPD ACP Jasmin Hussin confirmed both arrests and investigations are proceeding under the stated provisions. – James Leong
Semporna OCPD Superintendent Tan Hiap Wah.
