SARATOK – Police in Saratok have successfully busted a motorcycle theft syndicate with the arrest of a 24-year-old Indonesian national, believed to be behind a series of motorcycle thefts around the district.
Saratok District Police Chief, DSP Mathew Manggie, said the suspect was detained on September 25 at the Saratok Palm Oil (SAPOM) workers’ quarters following a targeted operation based on intelligence and information from the public.
“Upon questioning, the suspect admitted his involvement in stealing three Honda Wave Alpha motorcycles from a public motorcycle parking area located outside the fence of the Salcra Palm Oil Mill, Nanga Melupa,” Mathew said in a statement.
He added that police managed to recover three stolen motorcycles in yellow, red and blue, which were reported missing between September 14 and 25.
The first theft case was lodged on September 13 when a 39-year-old factory worker discovered his motorcycle had gone missing from the parking lot. The vehicle, valued at RM5,000, was among those recovered during the police operation.
“With this arrest, police have managed to solve three motorcycle theft cases in Saratok,” Mathew said.
The suspect has since been remanded to assist in investigations under Section 379A of the Penal Code, which pertains to theft of motor vehicles. If convicted, the offence carries a jail term of up to seven years and a possible fine.
Police also reminded the public to remain vigilant and to immediately report any suspicious activities, especially around parking areas in plantation and factory zones.
This arrest highlights the effectiveness of community cooperation and intelligence gathering in assisting police to combat crime in the district. – Ibu Pejabat Polis Daerah Saratok
