3-8-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) Malaysian police have successfully dismantled a suspected kidnapping gang, resulting in the deaths of four individuals and the arrest of five others in Johor. The operation marks a significant breakthrough in combating organised crime in the region.
Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Commissioner Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain revealed that the group was believed to be responsible for the abduction of a Malaysian citizen and a Chinese national near a toll plaza in Cyberjaya on 11 July. The victims were subsequently released on 15 July in Negri Sembilan, following the payment of a substantial ransom of RM5,457,290 in bitcoin by the Chinese national’s sister.
The first confrontation unfolded just before midnight on Thursday in the Jalan Skudai-Gelang Patah area. Police, trailing a suspect’s vehicle, were met with gunfire when the driver realised he was being followed. “The suspect initiated gunfire, compelling our officers to return fire until the situation was brought under control,” Commissioner Mohd Shuhaily stated. The suspect was fatally shot in his vehicle, and a revolver was recovered from the scene.
Further investigations led to a house in Taman Impian Emas, where a more intense standoff ensued. Despite repeated attempts by police to peacefully enter the premises, they were met with gunfire from multiple rooms within the house. “Our officers were forced to return fire in self-defence,” the Commissioner explained. The exchange resulted in three more fatalities and the recovery of two pistols and a machete.
The ages of the deceased suspects ranged from 35 to 51 years old. Notably, only one had a clean record, while another had previously been detained under the Prevention of Crime Act.
In the wake of these incidents, police conducted four additional raids across the state, leading to the apprehension of five individuals, including one woman. Commissioner Mohd Shuhaily emphasised that investigations into the exact motive behind the kidnapping are ongoing.
