Tawau police fired a warning shot before arresting a man believed involved in an armed robbery and attempted rape. Two officers were hurt.
TAWAU: Police fired a warning shot before arresting a man believed to be involved in an armed robbery and attempted rape at Kampung Titingan here last Friday.
Tawau District Police Chief ACP Rosdi Mat Jusoh said the suspect, in his 30s, had acted aggressively and attempted to attack policemen with a metal rod before jumping into the sea at about 4 pm.
“The suspect also tried to strike and drown a policeman during the pursuit, prompting police to fire a warning shot before arresting him. Two police officers sustained injuries in the incident,” he said in a statement here today.
Rosdi said the suspect, who did not possess any identification documents, was also believed to be involved in the armed robbery and attempted rape of an 18-year-old foreign woman at 3.50 am on the same day.
“During the robbery, the suspect and two accomplices, armed with machetes, allegedly stole two mobile phones and RM434 in cash belonging to the victim, with losses estimated at RM3,500,” he added.
Rosdi said police also seized a metal bar during the operation, while the suspect tested positive for methamphetamine and amphetamine.
He said the case was being investigated under Sections 395, 397 and 354 of the Penal Code.
Meanwhile, Rosdi clarified that the viral video, which lasts one minute and 29 seconds, showed police firing a warning shot at the suspect rather than an exchange of fire.
“Police are still tracking down two other suspects believed to be involved in the incident. Anyone with information is urged to contact the investigating officer, Inspector Norhafizah Hussin, at 012-527 9004,” he said.
Rosdi also urged the public not to speculate about the video circulating on social media.