KUCHING, 24 April 2025 — A viral 13-second video shared widely on social media has helped Kuching police arrest a foreign man believed to have attempted to steal a motorcycle near Tabuan Jaya yesterday.
Kuching District Police Chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu confirmed that the 40-year-old suspect was apprehended after he was caught on closed-circuit television (CCTV) attempting to tamper with a motorcycle’s ignition in the courtyard of a hotel at Jalan Setia Raja.
“The suspect was seen on CCTV trying to damage the motorcycle ignition. However, he failed to get away with the vehicle,” said Alexson.
After the failed theft, the suspect fled towards a nearby supermarket. Fortunately, the motorcycle owner spotted him and, with the help of the public, managed to detain the man before handing him over to the authorities.
Further checks revealed that the man had no valid travel documents to be in Malaysia. “During initial questioning, the suspect admitted his involvement in the incident,” said ACP Alexson. A drug test showed negative results.
The suspect is now being investigated under Section 379/511 of the Penal Code for attempted theft, which carries a maximum prison sentence of seven years if convicted.
Additionally, he is also being investigated under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 for being in Malaysia without valid documentation, a charge that may result in a fine of up to RM10,000 or imprisonment.
ACP Alexson has urged anyone with further information about the case to contact Investigating Officer Sergeant Sudianta Deya Johanis at 019-8492500. The public is also encouraged to report any suspicious behaviour by calling the Kuching District Police Control Centre at 082-244444.
This case highlights the importance of community alertness and the power of social media in assisting law enforcement efforts.
