SIBU – Police have crippled two criminal groups involved in robbery, snatch thefts, and shop break-ins around the Sibu district, following a series of arrests by the Sibu District Police Headquarters (IPD).
Sibu District Police Chief, ACP Zulkipli Suhaili, revealed that the arrests are part of continuous police efforts to tackle street crimes and burglary activities affecting public safety, especially among vulnerable communities.
In the first case, a 39-year-old local man was arrested by a team from the Lanang Police Station on 3 July 2025, believed to be responsible for at least eight robbery and snatch theft cases involving senior citizens between March and April this year.
“The suspect acted alone, specifically targeting elderly women as his victims. The total estimated losses suffered by the victims are around RM10,500,” said ACP Zulkipli in a press conference.
The man has since been remanded until 23 July 2025 to assist in investigations under Section 392 of the Penal Code, which provides for imprisonment of up to 14 years, a fine, or whipping if convicted.
In the second case, the Criminal Investigation Division (JSJ) of Sibu IPD apprehended a 47-year-old man suspected of involvement in multiple shop break-ins across Sibu since June.
“Following his arrest, police managed to trace and arrest another suspect, aged 53, on 17 July, believed to be the buyer of stolen goods. A subsequent raid at the second suspect’s residence uncovered stolen items worth RM45,000,” ACP Zulkipli added.
Both individuals are currently being held for further investigation under Section 457 (housebreaking by night) and Section 411 (dishonestly receiving stolen property) of the Penal Code. Offenders under Section 457 may face up to 14 years’ imprisonment, while Section 411 carries a sentence of up to five years in jail, a fine, or both.
Initial investigations revealed that the suspects had specifically targeted office buildings and shop lots at night, resulting in a total estimated loss of RM90,082.
ACP Zulkipli emphasised that PDRM remains committed to upholding public safety and reducing crime in Sibu and its surrounding areas.
“The public’s cooperation is crucial. We encourage anyone with relevant information about criminal activities to step forward and assist the authorities in ensuring a safer community,” he said.
