SERIAN, Feb 10 — A man was arrested after allegedly causing public alarm by brandishing a toy gun along Jalan Kuching-Serian, an incident that drew widespread attention after a video of the act went viral on social media.
The incident reportedly took place yesterday afternoon at Mile 18, Jalan Kuching-Serian. In the short video clip that circulated online, the suspect was seen pulling out what appeared to be a handgun and pointing it towards a roadside pedestrian. The man then fled the scene on a motorcycle, prompting concern among members of the public who feared the object could have been a real firearm.
Padawan district police chief Superintendent Mohd Irwan Hafiz Md Radzi confirmed that the suspect, a 31-year-old local man, was arrested later on the same day. The arrest was carried out at Kampung Lintang, Mile 28, following information received from the public and swift police action.
According to Supt Mohd Irwan Hafiz, police also seized the suspect’s motorcycle as well as the toy gun believed to have been used during the incident. Initial checks found that the object was not a real firearm. However, police stressed that the act of displaying such an item in public could still cause fear and panic, especially when done in a threatening manner.
“The arrest was made later that afternoon, and investigations are ongoing,” he said when contacted. He added that the case is being investigated under Section 36(1) of the Arms Act 1960, which deals with the improper use or display of imitation weapons in a way that may endanger public safety or cause alarm.
The suspect is expected to be remanded starting today to assist in further investigations. Police are also reviewing the viral video and gathering statements from witnesses, including the pedestrian involved in the incident.
The incident has sparked discussion online about irresponsible behaviour in public spaces and the dangers of using imitation weapons as a joke or for attention. Police reminded the public that even toy guns can be mistaken for real weapons, especially in tense situations, and such actions could lead to serious consequences.
Supt Mohd Irwan Hafiz also advised the public to remain calm and to report any suspicious behaviour immediately to the authorities rather than taking matters into their own hands. He stressed that public cooperation plays an important role in maintaining safety and order.
In conclusion, while the object involved was confirmed to be a toy gun, the incident serves as a reminder that actions perceived as harmless by some can create fear and disrupt public peace. Police will continue to take firm action against behaviour that threatens public safety, whether real weapons are involved or not. – The Borneo Post
