A SUSPECTED burglar was detained by residents after a homeowner confronted him during an attempted robbery at a house in Taman Delima, Sungai Petani, in the early hours of Sunday.
The incident occurred at about 1am when the 33-year-old homeowner, who was asleep, woke up after noticing unusual activity inside his house.
Kuala Muda district police chief Assistant Commissioner Hanyan Ramlan said the victim discovered the suspect inside the house and found him searching the kitchen area.
"The complainant found the suspect rummaging through the kitchen before attempting to apprehend him, resulting in a struggle that lasted about 15 minutes and was witnessed by the complainant's sister," he said.
During the struggle, the suspect allegedly bit the victim's right arm while attempting to escape. The homeowner suffered minor injuries to his left fingers and left toe after falling while chasing the suspect.
The suspect was eventually caught by a nearby neighbour before being handed over to the homeowner, who then contacted police.
No property loss was reported following the incident.
Hanyan said initial investigations found that the suspect had entered the house through an open window.
A background check revealed that the 27-year-old suspect from Kuala Ketil had nine previous criminal records.
The case is being investigated under Section 392 of the Penal Code for robbery. - July 12, 2026
