A suspect and a police officer were injured after a firearm discharged during a struggle following a vehicle stop in Tawau, with drugs found in the abandoned car.

TAWAU: A suspect and a police officer were injured after a shot was fired during a scuffle following a crime prevention patrol here.

Acting Tawau police chief Supt Champin Piuh said the incident occurred at about 10.45 am when two officers stopped a white Perodua Viva for inspection at the Ba Zhong Commercial Centre.

The driver abandoned his vehicle and fled on foot but was chased and apprehended by the policemen.

During the inspection and arrest, the suspect, who is in his 30s, refused to cooperate and turned aggressive, leading to a struggle.

Champin said a pistol held by one of the officers discharged a single round during the scuffle.

The suspect sustained an injury to his left hand, while another officer assisting in the arrest was injured on his right thigh.

Both individuals were taken to Tawau Hospital by ambulance for further treatment.

An inspection of the vehicle left behind by the suspect uncovered a substance believed to be methamphetamine.

Further investigations are ongoing to establish the full details of the incident and determine appropriate legal action.

 The Sun Malaysia