KUCHING, 5 April 2025 – A 75-year-old man who was cheated of RM1,200 during an ATM withdrawal in Stutong has finally received justice after police arrested the suspect responsible, announced Acting Kuching District Police Chief, Supt. Merbin Ak Lisa in a statement today.
The incident occurred on 30 March 2025 at around 8.30 am at a bank in the Stutong area, Kuching. The elderly victim was approached by a man who offered to assist him in withdrawing money. However, after the victim entered his ATM card and PIN, the suspect withdrew RM1,500 but only handed over RM300 to the victim before fleeing with the remaining RM1,200.
Following a police report lodged on 2 April 2025, a special team from the D4 Criminal Investigation Branch of the Kuching District Police Headquarters sprang into action. On 4 April 2025 at around 1.55 pm, the suspect — a 41-year-old local male — was arrested in Kenyalang Park, Kuching. Several items believed to be connected to the case were also seized during the operation.
Initial investigations revealed that the suspect confessed to his involvement in the theft and is found to have 10 previous criminal records. Drug screening results returned negative. The suspect has been remanded for three days until 8 April 2025 as investigations continue under Section 379 of the Penal Code, which carries a jail term of up to 7 years, or a fine, or both.
Supt. Merbin urged the public, especially the elderly, to be cautious when using ATMs. “If needed, always bring a trusted family member when going to the bank to prevent falling victim to scams or criminal activities,” he said.
He also encouraged the public to report any suspicious individuals near ATM areas or banks to the Kuching IPD Control Centre at 082-244444 or at the nearest police station.
This swift action by the Royal Malaysia Police is another reminder that the authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety of the public and bringing criminals to justice. — Polis Daerah Kuching
