Attempted Theft Video Goes Viral on Social Media; Police Arrest 5 Within Hours

(Kuching, 4th) After a video showing an attempt to steal household work equipment went viral on social media, police launched a special operation yesterday at Batu Kawa RPR flats, arresting five suspects within hours.

Padawan Police District Chief Superintendent Barry William stated in a press release today that the operation not only successfully apprehended suspects involved in the attempted theft, but also uncovered various other illegal activities, including drug abuse and violation of immigration laws.

He said that, based on intelligence and investigation following the viral video, the police raided a home at Batu Kawa RPR at around 2:15 pm yesterday, arresting three men and one woman.

“Police investigations at the scene did not end there; one of the suspects subsequently led officers to another residence in the same area without a house number, believed to be a hideout for his accomplices.”

“About 15 minutes later, police conducted a second raid and arrested another man,” he said.

Barry said that preliminary questioning revealed two of the suspects admitted to being involved in the attempted work equipment theft case under investigation, with one also admitting involvement in another previously reported criminal case.

He said that further checks resulted in the detention of a 39-year-old Indonesian man. The man is suspected of staying in the country without valid travel documents and admitted to drug abuse.

Additionally, two of the detainees suspected of drug abuse have been referred to the Padawan District Headquarters Narcotics Crime Investigation Unit for preliminary urine screening.

“Screening results showed both tested positive for methamphetamine/amphetamine and were subsequently released on police bail to assist further investigations,” he said.

Police investigations also found that one of the suspects has a lengthy criminal record, including robbery and offences under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.

He said the other three suspects remain in custody to assist police in investigations under Section 379 of the Penal Code (theft), together with Section 511 (attempt to commit offences).

Barry pointed out that this operation once again demonstrates that, with swift police action and public information, criminal cases can be solved in a short time and other offences committed by suspects can be further uncovered.