GEORGE TOWN – Five suspects were nabbed yesterday in relation to 12 cases of vandalism that ruined the paintwork of 43 luxury cars and 18 motorcycles belonging to retailers in Green Lane and Pulau Tikus.
The acts that took place over the week are believed to be attempts to extort up to RM100,000 from the retailers under the guise of prevention.
The suspects have hired a lawyer, who confirmed the arrests, saying that he is now liaising with police to assist in the investigation.
Northeast district police chief Soffian Santong also confirmed the arrests, saying that police will hold a briefing later once more details are available.
It is learnt that out of the five suspects, two are father and son.
It was reported that the owners of the used car retail premises claimed that they had received messages of extortion threatening that more vehicles would be vandalised if demands are not met.
Soffian said the losses amounted to RM60,000, and based on a closed-circuit television camera nearby, police have identified a man riding a Yamaha 135 LC who is believed to be involved in the case.
The cars and motorcycles are believed to be vandalised with acid and bleach – packets filled with red liquid were thrown into the targeted premises between 3pm and 6am.
All 12 cases are being investigated under Sections 427 (committing mischief) and 385 (extortion) of the Penal Code. – The Vibes, May 24, 2023
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