Julau man injured after homemade bakakok explodes, Sarawak CP warns against weapons possession

Mancha (centre) addressing a press conference at the Sarawak Police Headquarters on Jan 24, 2024.

KUCHING, Jan 24: A 31-year-old man from Julau suffered injuries to his left thigh when a homemade rifle, known locally as ‘bakakok’, unexpectedly exploded.

Confirming that a police report on the incident was lodged on Jan 16, Sarawak Commissioner of Police Dato Mancha Ata said the injured man was rushed to the Sarikei Hospital where his condition is reported to be stable.

“The case is currently under investigation according to Section 8 of the Arms Act 1960,” he said in a statement today.

Highlighting the seriousness of the matter, he pointed out that in 2022, authorities confiscated 32 bakakoks and 21 unlicensed weapons.

“In 2023, as many as 21 bakakoks and 11 unlicensed weapons were seized,” he said.

Mancha issued a stern warning, emphasising that possession of self-made and unlicensed weapons constitutes an offense under the Arms Act 1960, carrying potential penalties of imprisonment for up to seven years or a fine not exceeding RM10,000 upon conviction.

Urging public compliance with regulations, he stressed that the police will not compromise with individuals found in possession of such weapons.

Those in possession of self-made and unlicensed weapons are urged to voluntarily surrender them to the police to avoid legal repercussions. — DayakDaily