MATU DARO – Police in Matu Daro have arrested a 70-year-old man following a confrontation in Kampung Saai, where he allegedly threatened a plantation worker while armed with a homemade shotgun.
The incident occurred in early May 2026 when the victim was tending to oil palm trees in the orchard. According to police, the suspect, who was reportedly intoxicated, confronted the victim and pointed a shotgun at his chest. The victim managed to flee unharmed and later lodged a police report.
Following investigations, officers from the Matu Daro Criminal Investigation Division detained the suspect and seized two homemade shotgun barrels, five rounds of 12-bore ammunition, and a samurai sword. Authorities confirmed that the suspect did not possess a valid permit for the weapons.
The case was investigated under Section 506 of the Penal Code for criminal intimidation, Section 8(a) of the Arms Act 1960 for possession of firearms without a licence, and Section 6(1) of the Corrosive and Explosive Substances and Dangerous Weapons Act 1958 for possession of dangerous weapons. A urine test conducted on the suspect returned negative for drug use.
The suspect was remanded for four days before being charged at the Sarikei Court on 8 May 2026. He pleaded guilty to three charges and received separate sentences: six months’ imprisonment for criminal intimidation, eight months for unlawful possession of firearms, and five years for possession of a dangerous weapon. He is currently serving his sentence at Sibu Prison.
Matu Daro District Police Chief DSP Rahim Anak Mihos stressed that possession of firearms and ammunition without a valid permit is a serious offence, punishable by up to seven years in prison, a fine of up to RM10,000, or both.
He further highlighted that carrying dangerous weapons in public places carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and may extend to ten years.
The police reiterated their commitment to maintaining public safety and urged residents to report suspicious activities.
Authorities emphasised that strict enforcement against illegal weapons is necessary to prevent violence and safeguard communities across Sarawak.
