13-11-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) A gang of Vietnamese nationals, linked to dozens of sophisticated burglaries across the Klang Valley, met a violent end during a late-night police raid in Jalan Imbi. The four men, all in their forties, were killed in an exchange of gunfire with law enforcement officers.
Kuala Lumpur Police Chief Commissioner Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa revealed that the suspects, who had been operating since 2018, were responsible for at least 44 theft cases with losses totalling RM4.3 million. The gang had developed a distinctive method of breaking into safes using drilling equipment in both residential and commercial properties.
The fatal confrontation occurred around 11:30 PM on Tuesday when a joint team from Bukit Aman and Kuala Lumpur Criminal Investigation Department, conducting “Ops Tebuk”, attempted to apprehend the suspects at their upscale hideout. According to police reports, the suspects initiated the gunfight, forcing officers to return fire in self-defence.
“The suspects were armed with two pistols and two machetes,” Commissioner Rusdi told reporters at the scene. “Their most recent heist was carried out just two days ago in Sri Hartamas.”
Investigation revealed that all four men possessed valid passports, though authorities are still determining their length of stay in Malaysia. The gang’s effectiveness was partly attributed to their foreign status, which made identification difficult even when captured on CCTV footage.
“Their operation was remarkably professional and swift, typically striking at night,” Commissioner Rusdi explained. “They used high-end residences as both hideouts and planning centres for their heists.”
The bodies have been transferred to Kuala Lumpur Hospital for post-mortem examination. Police are continuing their investigation to identify any possible remaining gang members or associates.
