AN attempted act of arson dramatically backfired in Taman Bukit Katil Permai yesterday when the suspect’s own motorcycle was engulfed in flames during the commission of the crime.
The suspect, who remains at large, allegedly set fire to two cars parked in a residential garage before the blaze spread to his vehicle, forcing him to flee the scene on foot.
Melaka Tengah District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Christopher Patit, confirmed the incident was reported to the Kandang Police Station at 2.29pm.
“Initial investigations reveal the fire broke out at approximately 1.38pm and involved a Perodua Axia and Bezza. The suspect’s motorcycle was also found burned at the scene,” he said in a brief statement.
He added that no eyewitnesses were present during the incident, although several CCTV recordings from the victim’s home are being examined. The value of the damage has not yet been determined.
A police report has been filed under Section 436 of the Penal Code for mischief by fire with intent to destroy property.
CCTV footage of the incident has since gone viral on social media, showing a man wearing a helmet, long-sleeved shirt and black trousers arriving on a motorcycle. He is seen dousing the vehicles with what appears to be petrol using a pail, before igniting the fire and tossing it onto the cars.
The flames rapidly spread, unexpectedly catching the motorcycle alight. The suspect is then seen fleeing on foot, leaving the burning motorcycle behind.
Police are continuing their search for the perpetrator. - August 24, 2025
