KOTA SAMARHAN: Police arrested a 49-year-old unemployed man for allegedly stealing money from a temple’s donation box at An Hui Ting Temple at Kampung Jemukan Ulu, Sadong Jaya, Asajaya yesterday (Aug 18).
Kota Samarahan police chief Supt Damataries Lautin said the suspect, who has prior criminal records, was caught at the scene after temple officials alerted the authorities.
However, he said the the man’s accomplice, in his 50s, managed to flee into nearby bushes and police are now tracking his whereabouts.
“The duo were spotted by the temple’s secretary, who was monitoring CCTV cameras at 2.05 pm yesterday and had immediately alerted the Kapitan of Kampung Jemukan Cina and temple chairman.
“The suspects arrived in a black-and-white Proton Saga. Upon entering the temple, the 49-year-old man pretended to pray while acting as a lookout, while the other suspect, was seen inserting a roll of white plastic with glue applied at its end into the slot of the donation box.
“A copy of the CCTV recording was obtained, showing the man stealing from the temple’s donation box, with the estimated loss amounting to RM300,” he said, while adding that the temple doors are usually open during the day and locked at night.
He said the kapitan and temple chairman later arrived, blocked the temple’s entrance and exit using their vehicle, and also sought police assistance.
“Police later arrived and also blocked the temple entrance. Both suspects tried to head back to their car parked in front of the temple, but police managed to arrest the 49-year-old man,” he said.
He added that the man appeared to be in a dazed condition and is suspected to be under the influence of drugs.
“A urine test will be conducted, and further interrogation will be carried out to determine his involvement in other cases,” he said.
Damataries said the suspect is now detained at the Kota Samarahan police lock-up and is expected to be remanded today.
