7-4-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) Two Malaysian police officers were apprehended on Friday (April 5) on charges of allegedly extorting money from a man in Johor Bahru, The Star reported.
The duo reportedly detained a 29-year-old man at the Sultan Iskandar Building on Tuesday, asserting that he had a criminal record.
After seizing his passport and mobile phone, they purportedly demanded RM2,000 (S$570) from the man to evade arrest. According to China Press, one of the officers escorted the victim on a motorbike to four ATMs to withdraw the money.
However, the victim could only manage to withdraw RM1,000.
In an attempt to flee, the man simulated an asthma attack and collapsed. When a passing motorcyclist offered assistance, he was whisked away by one of the officers.
Continuing to feign illness at another location, the victim drew the attention of a couple who summoned an ambulance to take him home.
Realising his impending exposure, the police officer dropped the man’s belongings and departed from the scene. According to Johor police chief Comm M. Kumar, the victim filed a report on Friday.
“The preliminary investigation revealed that the victim was undergoing immigration clearance at the BSI when the two suspects detained him, alleging he had a criminal record,” he stated.
“The suspects coerced RM2,000 from the victim to avoid arrest and detention at the police lock-up.”
The suspects, aged 32 and 33, were apprehended on the same day and are presently in custody to aid in inquiries.
“The Johor police chief declared: “Stringent action, without compromise, will be taken against any police officer and personnel found guilty of a crime, adhering to the principle of equality under the law enshrined in Article 8 of the federal Constitution.”
He further affirmed that the Johor police are dedicated to combating integrity issues and criminal misconduct among police officers and personnel to enhance public trust in the force.
