KUCHING: A missing wallet at Gala City led police to an unlikely suspect — an 81-year-old man now under investigation for alleged theft.
The wallet, said to contain cash and personal documents, vanished from the bustling commercial area on Monday (May 18), prompting its 55-year-old owner to lodge a police report.
Police swiftly launched investigations and, less than 24 hours later, tracked down and arrested the elderly local man at around 11.45am yesterday (May 19).
Kuching police chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu said officers also seized several items believed to be linked to the case during the operation.
Background checks found the suspect had no prior record, while an initial drug screening test came back negative.
The case is being investigated under Section 379 of the Penal Code for theft, which carries a jail term of up to seven years, a fine, or both upon conviction.
Alexson reminded the public to stay alert and avoid leaving valuables unattended in public places to avoid falling victim to similar incidents.
