3-4-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) The Inspector-General of Police in Malaysia, Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, has stated that Israeli citizen Shalom Avitan and a local couple who were recently detained could potentially face the death penalty if found guilty of illegal possession of firearms. The investigation into the suspects falls under Section 7 of the Firearms (Increased Penalties) Act.
Initially, the case was being investigated under the Passport Act when Avitan was arrested. However, further investigation uncovered more serious offenses, leading to the application of the Firearms (Increased Penalties) Act for both Avitan and the married couple in their early 40s. Tan Sri Razarudin Husain made these statements during a press conference held at Bukit Aman on April 2.
Authorities are still conducting investigations to determine the true motive behind the possession of the pistols by the suspects. Avitan remains in custody until Sunday, April 7, while the married couple is detained until Friday, April 5. If investigators require additional time, an extension of their remand will be requested.
According to reports, Avitan, aged 38, was apprehended on March 27 at a hotel located in Jalan Ampang. At the time of his arrest, he was found in possession of six guns and 200 rounds of ammunition. The local married couple, suspected of supplying weapons to Avitan, were arrested in Kuala Selangor on March 29. Additionally, a local man believed to be Avitan’s driver was detained in Cameron Highlands, Pahang. The investigation continues to unfold as authorities work to gather more evidence and information related to the case.
