Two brothers arrested for suspected gang robbery in Kota Samarahan

KUCHING (Jan 28): Police on Tuesday arrested two brothers for suspected involvement in a gang robbery case at Kampung Sui in Kota Samarahan, which resulted in losses estimated at about RM15,000.

Kota Samarahan district police chief Supt Damataries Lautin said the arrests were made around noon at a house in Kampung Sui following a joint operation by the district’s Criminal Investigation Division and the Sarawak Police Contingent’s Criminal Investigation Department D8.

He said the robbery was reported to have occurred at around 4.30am on Jan 11 when the victim, who was alone at home, was approached by three men posing as individuals asking for directions.

“The three suspects, who were reported to be armed with a long machete, wooden stick and iron bar, then forced their way into the victim’s house.

“The victim was tied up with nylon rope before the suspects ransacked the house and fled with various items, including cash, mobile phones, a tablet, personal documents, as well as the victim’s car,” he said in a statement.

Damataries added that initial investigations found that both suspects admitted to being involved in the incident together with another accomplice who is still at large.

“Efforts to track down the remaining suspect are still actively ongoing,” he said.

In the same operation, police also seized several items believed to be proceeds from the robbery, including a grass cutter, a tablet and a mobile phone.

In addition, police found an airsoft pistol along with several rounds of pellets and casings.

“A search at the house led to the discovery of the airsoft pistol, which belonged to one of the suspects.

“During questioning, the suspect admitted to purchasing the airsoft pistol for RM1,000 from an individual in Serikin, Bau,” he said.

The case is being investigated under Sections 395/397 of the Penal Code and Section 8(a) of the Arms Act 1960.

Both suspects are currently being held at the Kota Samarahan Police Station lock-up and will be brought before the Kota Samarahan Court for a remand application to assist further investigations.