Sibu shooting: Widespread public concern over firearms access, Bintulu rep wants answers

Tiong wants immediate actions and solutions on recent daylight gang-related shooting in Sibu on Jan 1, 2024.

SIBU, Jan 4: A Sarawakian MP who is also a State lawmaker calls for the immediate address of a recent shooting in Sibu which is alleged to be gang related, and the possibility of widespread availability of firearms in the riverine town as the shooting has caused public panic and raise concerns within the entire society.

In a Facebook post today, Dudong assemblyman Dato Sri Tiong King Sing who is also Bintulu MP asserted that the Sibu Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) must fully and vigorously address unlawful elements in Sibu and take decisive actions to prevent any criminal activities.

He said it goes without saying the need to prevent a recurrence of incidents to ensure the peace and safety of the Sibu community.

He firmly believed that Sibu PDRM has the capability to combat crimes spreading in the community and he called on them not to compromise on a zero-tolerance approach towards such crimes before urging them to solve the case using strong measures against criminal gangsterism.

“I also appeal to the public to provide information to the police and cooperate with the investigations to apprehend the trigger-happy criminal and thereby eliminate this threat to our society,” said Tiong.

Urging the public to cooperate and provide information, he called for tighter police surveillance such as enhancing patrol and law enforcement efforts in security-sensitive areas such as entertainment venues and bars, especially after nightfall.

He said local criminals and criminal activities must be eradicated to prevent any illegal incidents that could pose threats to the lives and safety of the public.

Tiong who is also Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister said video images of the assailants brazenly firing shots in broad daylight in a busy commercial area, showing no regard for innocent passersby, have been circulating on social media.

He stressed the audacious and reckless shooting which was endangering the lives of others is absolutely appalling and challenges the legal system and law enforcement agencies of our country. 

“Even though the incident occurred at a coffeeshop at Lorong 3 Jalan Wong King Huo, it has sent shockwaves throughout the entire Sibu society.

“This episode has raised concerns about the possibility of widespread availability of firearms in Sibu, leading to deep anxieties about personal safety,” said Tiong.

Tiong who is also Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) president said Sibu residents are now fearing for their lives and are questioning if it is safe to walk on the streets.

He said if swift and decisive action is not taken, it will be impossible to give reassurance to local businesses and residents.

On Jan 1 at 4.55pm, three men were having drinks at a coffeeshop at Jalan Wong King Huo when two men armed with semi-automatic pistols showed up on a motorcycle.

One of the suspects fired at a close range while the other from a distance of 20 meters. After injuring the three men, the two suspects fled the scene.

On Jan 2, Sibu district police chief Zulkipli Suhaili at a press conference, reported that the three men were in stable condition.

Two of the victims, he said, had a 2017 record for violent crime under Section 148 of the Penal Code and one of them had a previous record under Section 324 of the Penal Code for voluntarily causing hurt. — DayakDaily