Cops stop mentally disturbed man from running amok

SIBU: Police had to use minimal force to subdue a local man wielding a machete and a knife before he could run amok and harm himself last Sunday (Nov 12).

The incident at Jalan Mashuri raised public concern as the man wandered the area brandishing the weapons.

Sibu police chief ACP Zulkipli Suhaili said a team from the central police station and a motorcycle patrol and patrol car units  swiftly responded to a public complaint around 12.20 pm.

Despite attempts to calm the man, he became aggressive and stabbed himself several times in the stomach.

“The 35-year-old was arrested using minimal force, and no injuries were reported among the public.

“Seized from him was a knife and a machete,” he said.

The man is currently undergoing treatment for abdominal injuries at Sibu Hospital.

Police investigations revealed that the man was grappling with mental health issues, which was confirmed by his family.

Zulkipli said the case has been referred to the Psychiatry Division of Sibu Hospital for further action.