Police nab nine suspects in Batu Niah gang robbery

MIRI (April 4): Police have arrested nine individuals, including a local woman, in connection with a gang robbery near here, with initial arrests made within 24 hours of the incident.

Miri District Police Chief ACP Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah said the robbery occurred at a house in Goodwill Garden, Jalan Sepupok, Batu Niah on March 27 at around 4.48am.

He said the suspects allegedly forced open the front doors while the victim was inside. Once inside, they restrained the victim and fled with valuables, including two mobile phones, a tablet and two gold rings.

“Following swift action through the implementation of Op Casa by a team of officers and personnel from the Criminal Investigation Department of Miri District Police Headquarter (IPD Miri), five suspects were arrested within 24 hours of the report being lodged.

“Subsequently, arrests were carried out, leading to the detention of all nine suspects during the course of the operation,” Mohd Farhan said.

During the arrests, police recovered items believed to belong to the victim, including one mobile phone and two gold rings, to assist investigations.

The suspects, aged between 17 and 48, comprise eight men and one woman, and are currently remanded at Miri Central Police Station.

Urine tests revealed that all of the suspects tested positive for drugs.

The case is being investigated under Section 395 of the Penal Code for gang robbery, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment and may include whipping upon conviction.

Mohd Farhan said investigating officer Inspector Md Hassannal Mahadza Hamid is handling the case.

He also urged the public to ensure the safety of their homes and to report any suspicious activities promptly, stressing that public cooperation is vital for curbing crime and maintaining safety.