Tawau cops record arrests over three separate intimidation incidents

KOTA KINABALU (Jan 19): Police arrested several individuals in three separate incidents in Tawau, involving family disputes and criminal intimidation.

Tawau District police chief ACP Jasmin Hussin said the earliest incident occurred at Kampung Rancangan Ranggu, at around 11am on Sunday, where a 27-year-old local man allegedly became aggressive after being reprimanded by his father.

“The suspect threatened to kill his younger sister and swung a broomstick at his 41-year-old elder brother, before punching him,” he said in a statement.

Jasmin added that initial investigations indicated that the suspect would act aggressively whenever he was reprimanded by family members.

The suspect was later detained by police.

The second incident took place at about 8pm also on Sunday, at Kampung Pengkalan Asli in Merotai Besar where two local men had allegedly acted aggressively against a 63-year-old man.

“In this case, one suspect was seen holding a samurai sword, and the other, a machete,” said Jasmin.

It is believed that the incident stemmed from a family disagreement involving the wife of one of the suspects, who wanted to stay overnight at her father’s house.

“Both suspects were arrested.

“Background checks show that one of the suspects has previous criminal records related to threats and housebreaking,” he added.

The third incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, at Kampung Vietnam, involving a foreign national in his 30s.

“He allegedly threatened his mother with a machete during a family dispute.

“The suspect also damaged the wall of the house, causing the victim, who is in her 60s, to feel frightened and threatened,” said Jasmin.

Police later seized a machete believed to have been used in the incident.

“The case is being investigated under Section 506 of the Penal Code and Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63.

“The police will not compromise with any form of threats, violence, or actions involving weapons that can endanger family members and the public,” stressed Jasmin.

“Everyone must control their emotions during family disputes, and resolve conflicts through legal channels.

“Police reports should be lodged immediately if anyone faces a dangerous situation,” he added.