KOTA KINABALU, June 5 — Police have arrested 18 men to assist in investigations into two fights that occurred in Kampung Air early Thursday morning.
In the first incident, at about 4am, a local man in his 20s sustained injuries to his right calf after being stabbed with a sharp object believed to be a stingray spine while at a food outlet in the area.
The victim was then rushed to the Queen Elizabeth II Hospital (HQE II) for treatment and is reported to be in stable condition.
Acting Kota Kinabalu district police chief Supt Syed Lot Syed Abdul Rahman said initial investigations found that the incident stemmed from a disagreement between several individuals before escalating into a fight.
He said the victim, who attempted to break up the altercation, was believed to have been attacked by several suspects, resulting in his injuries.
“About an hour later, another fight was reported at the same location, which is believed to be linked to the earlier incident.
“In the second incident, a man sustained facial injuries after being assaulted by several individuals,” he said in a statement.
Syed Lot said police subsequently arrested 18 men believed to have been involved in the incidents.
Police also seized several items believed to be connected to the case, he said, adding that initial urine tests conducted on all suspects returned negative results for drug abuse.
Syed Lot said the case is being investigated under Section 148 of the Penal Code for rioting using weapons and Section 324 of the Penal Code for intentionally causing injury using a weapon or dangerous instrument.
Syed Lot urged members of the public who witnessed the incidents or have relevant information to come forward and assist police by contacting the investigating officer, Insp Movendran A/L Apoorvasamy, at 018-574 6310.
Syed Lot also reminded the public not to speculate or spread unverified information that could disrupt investigations and affect public order.
“The police view seriously any acts of violence and fighting that could threaten public security and order and will take strict action against any individual who violates the law,” he said. — The Borneo Post
Malay Mail – Malaysia
