POLICE in Tawau have arrested a man suspected of secretly filming his own stepchildren in a bathroom at a home in Kampung Tanjung Batu Laut.
The 39-year-old suspect was detained at 8.07 pm, less than two hours after police received a report at 6.27 pm on the same day, Tawau District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Jasmin Hussin, said.
The disturbing act came to light when a 12-year-old girl discovered a mobile phone, believed to belong to her stepfather, hidden in the bathroom while recording. She promptly handed the device to her mother.
“Upon inspection, several humiliating video clips were found involving the victim and her siblings, believed to have been recorded without their knowledge while using the bathroom,” Jasmin stated.
The suspect, who works as a labourer and resides in the same house as the victims, admitted to the act when questioned by family members.
An initial examination of the confiscated phone revealed ten video clips involving the child victim and two other children.
The man has been detained for further investigation under Section 377D and Section 509 of the Penal Code for committing indecent acts and violating the victims’ dignity, Jasmin added.
“The police will not compromise with any individual involved in immoral acts or violations of privacy, especially when it involves one’s own family,” he said. “Strict action will be taken against anyone who breaks the law, including acts that tarnish the honour of family members or others.” - January 13, 2026
