MIRI: A man, who was recently released from prison, was arrested after staging a nearly four-hour knife standoff on the roof of a house at Taman Bumiko early this morning.
The incident happened at around 2:10 am when members of the public reported a man behaving aggressively while armed with a knife.
Responding officers arrived at the scene to find the suspect – who is the husband of the victim – on the roof of the house, holding a vegetable-cutting knife.
Investigations revealed that the man had broken into the house before arming himself with the knife.
Negotiations with the suspect lasted for about four hours before he finally surrendered to police at around 7:40 am and handed over the weapon.
Miri police chief ACP Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah confirmed that the suspect was arrested and the knife was seized for investigation.
“The suspect, who was recently released from prison, is being investigated under Sections 506, 448, and 427 of the Penal Code for criminal intimidation, trespassing and mischief.
“The offences carry penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment terms of up to seven years.
“A urine test later confirmed the suspect was under the influence of methamphetamine and amphetamine.
“He will also be investigated under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, which provides for a fine of up to RM5,000 or a jail term of up to five years,” he said.
Further checks revealed the suspect has four prior records.
Farhan is urging those with information regarding the incident to contact Investigating Officer Insp. Mohammad Nashriq Noring at 010-9307392 / 085-432533 or the nearest police station.
The public is advised against spreading unverified information on social media that could cause unnecessary alarm or anxiety.