KUCHING: The Magistrates Court here today allowed two men to be remanded for three days from today (Sept. 23) until September 26 to assist investigations into a fire-related mischief case at a convenience store along Jalan Green here on Sunday (Sept. 20).
Senior Assistant Registrar, Syazwani Sajeli, made the order towards the two suspects, aged 23 and 40, after the application was made by Investigating Officer, Insp. Tan Chiang Fook, under Section 117 of the Criminal Procedure Code.
The case is being investigated under Section 436 of the Penal Code, which provides for imprisonment of up to 20 years and a fine upon conviction for committing mischief by fire or explosive substance.
The 40-year-old suspect was arrested at his residence in Sibu at about 2:40 pm on Tuesday (Sept. 22).
The second suspect, aged 23, was arrested behind a stall in Sarikei at about 9:30 pm the same day.
Investigations revealed that both suspects had allegedly gone to the convenience store along Jalan Green at about 8:30 pm.
The duo, who were allegedly wearing masks, were said to have uttered the words, “Bom bom, keluar ada api” (Bomb, bomb, get out, there is a fire).
Three employees at the store then rushed out of the premises after allegedly hearing the threat, before noticing that the premises was on fire.
Both suspects were represented by lawyer, Daniel Ling.
Police continue to track down individuals involved in recent arson attacks on convenience stores in Kuching and Sri Aman as investigations into the motive are ongoing.
Sarawak Police Commissioner, Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah, said recently here that investigators had yet to ascertain the reason behind the incidents.
“We will continue our efforts to track down the suspects involved in the arson incidents and find out their motive for committing this act.
“As of now, we have yet to ascertain the reason behind the incident,” he told reporters.
