KUCHING: A suspect believed to be involved in a series of incidents where rocks were thrown at moving vehicles near the Paragon area of Jalan Batu Kawa has been arrested, bringing relief to drivers and residents in the area.
In a statement, Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Women’s Chief Kho Teck Wan expressed her gratitude to the Padawan police and Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) for their month-long efforts to apprehend the perpetrator.
“Relieved to learn that the suspect who threw stones at moving cars near Paragon was arrested at 7:00 pm last night.
“Well done to MPP and Padawan Police who joined forces in pursuing this case.
“Kudos to MPP chairman Tan Kai, councillor Aaron Tay and friends who personally did a few night shifts trying to catch the culprit. This is truly a community effort,” she said.
Kho had first raised the issue in a dialogue session with Padawan police chief, Supt Mohd Irwan Hafiz Md Radzi. and his team on June 10, arranged by Pemanca Tan Kun Gee.
During the meeting, several crime concerns in the Batu Kawa area were brought up.
One involved the troubling rise in rock-throwing incidents along Jalan Batu Kawa, particularly near the Paragon area.
At the time, police acknowledged receiving four official reports from car owners whose windshields had been shattered.
Although a suspect was previously apprehended, the attacks continued, prompting authorities to continue their investigations, which led to the recent arrest.
Other issues concerned theft and vandalism incidents reported at Pine Square and a theft at Westfield Commercial Centre.
The police suggested that the council install additional CCTVs at key strategic points to help expedite investigations.
Meanwhile, shop owners were also encouraged to install surveillance systems to aid in crime prevention and evidence gathering.
Patrols in the area will be stepped up to deter further criminal activity.
Kho said the dialogue also explored how the Padawan Council’s Enforcement Team could work more closely with the police to enhance overall safety in the area.
She reaffirmed the importance of public cooperation, reminding residents to report incidents to the police regularly.
“I would like to urge once again, everyone who is a victim of crime and vandalism, to lodge a police report so the authorities can take action.
“I had lodged police reports on break-ins and a stalker at MJC, Pine Square and Westfield Point in the last few months, and will continue to monitor the progress of these cases.
“Social media postings may generate lots of attention, but with no victim and police reports, the posting may not alert the authorities to take action.
“Everyone’s effort counts in building a safe community,” she said.
