KUCHING: Sarawak police have reiterated strict enforcement against illegal firearm possession following several cases involving homemade weapons, including a recent court case in Daro, Mukah.
Sarawak Police Commissioner, Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah, said police have detected incidents involving homemade firearms, commonly known as “bakarkuk”, and warned that firm action will be taken against offenders.
He stressed that any form of weapon ownership, including firearms and ammunition, requires valid approval and licensing from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and that homemade weapons are illegal and will not receive approval.
“Anyone found possessing firearms, whether genuine or homemade, without a valid licence commits an offence under the law,” he said during a press conference held in conjunction with ‘Ops Selamat 25’ for the upcoming Chinese New Year 2026 celebration at Plaza Merdeka here today.
Zainal added that offenders found possessing firearms or ammunition without a licence may face strict action under Section 8 of the Arms Act 1960, and enforcement efforts will continue to prevent incidents that could endanger lives.
He also reminded the public not to keep or possess illegal firearms, bullets or any form of unlawful ammunition, and to apply for the necessary licence if there is a legitimate need for weapon ownership.
A recent report stated that a 35-year-old man was charged at the Daro Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (Feb 7) for allegedly possessing firearms and ammunition without lawful authority.
According to the charge, the accused was found in possession of firearms and ammunition at an unnumbered house in Daro at about 8.30 am on Feb 1.
The offence was framed under Section 8(a) of the Arms Act 1960, which carries a penalty of up to seven years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to RM10,000, or both, upon conviction.
During the incident, police seized two homemade shotguns and six rounds of ammunition of various brands and colours.
No plea was recorded from the accused, and the case has been fixed for further mention for judicial decision on Feb 12.
The accused was released on RM4,000 bail with two sureties, which has been paid.
