SRI AMAN – Police have arrested a 36-year-old local food vendor in connection with an arson investigation involving a convenience store in Sri Aman last Sunday night.
The suspect was detained by Saratok police at a house at about 7.15pm following information received by the authorities, according to Saratok District Police Chief DSP Mathew Manggie.
DSP Mathew confirmed the arrest to RTM in Kuching last night. He said the man was being investigated for his alleged involvement in the incident, which police believe involved the use of an incendiary device.
Preliminary investigations found that the suspect tested negative for drugs in a urine screening. Police also established that he has a criminal record involving eight previous offences.
The man is believed to be one of several individuals linked to the attack on the convenience store, which occurred in Sri Aman on Sunday night. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.
The case comes amid a series of attacks reported to have taken place simultaneously in Kuching and Sri Aman on the same day. The police investigation is intended to establish the circumstances of the incidents and determine the involvement of those suspected to be connected to them.
Following his arrest in Saratok, the suspect was handed over to Sri Aman police for further investigation. The transfer places the case under the jurisdiction of officers handling the reported incident in Sri Aman.
Police are investigating the case under Section 436 of the Penal Code, the provision cited in relation to the alleged use of fire or explosive means in circumstances covered by the law.
The arrest does not establish the suspect’s guilt, and investigations are continuing to determine the full circumstances of the case. Further action will depend on the findings gathered by investigators.
Authorities have not provided further details on the extent of damage to the convenience store or whether other suspects have been detained in connection with the Sri Aman incident.
The arrest follows police efforts to trace individuals believed to be linked to the reported arson attack. Investigators are expected to examine information gathered during the operation as they continue their inquiry into the incident.
The case remains under investigation, with the suspect now in the custody of Sri Aman police for further action under the relevant provision of the Penal Code.
