2-4-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) Police in Kuching are currently searching for a suspect involved in the recent Molotov cocktail attack at the KK Super Mart outlet on Jalan Satok. This incident marks the third similar occurrence nationwide within a week, raising concerns over public safety.
The Kuching police chief, Assistant Commissioner Ahsmon Bajah, confirmed that the outlet lodged a report on Sunday regarding the incident. According to a 25-year-old store worker, a Molotov cocktail was thrown, causing the boxes of beverages placed in front of the store to catch fire.
In response to this act of arson, the police have initiated an investigation under Section 435 of the Penal Code, which addresses “mischief by fire or explosive substance with intent to cause damage.” ACP Ahsmon emphasized the severity of the offense, stating that if convicted, the perpetrator could face imprisonment for up to seven years, a fine, or both.
It is worth noting that these attacks come in the wake of the recent controversy surrounding the “Allah” socks issue involving a KK Super Mart outlet. Consequently, there have been calls from certain quarters to boycott the chain. Last Saturday, another KK Super Mart outlet in Kuantan fell victim to a similar attack, while a failed attempt was made to sabotage an outlet in Bidor, Perak, earlier in the week.
In response to these incidents, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged the public not to take matters into their own hands and to allow the legal process to take its course. National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang has also emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and harmony in the country, urging responsible citizenship and advising against provocative acts or violence that may lead to conflict and unrest.
Regarding the latest incident in Kuching, ACP Ahsmon urged anyone with information to contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Ceremona Nasim, at 013-855 4168 or visit the nearest police station. He stressed the importance of refraining from engaging in vigilantism and encouraged the public to let the authorities handle the investigation.
