Cops confirm arson at two 24-hour convenience stores in Kuching

KUCHING, Sept 21 — Two 24-hour convenience stores here were targeted by unknown persons in separate arson attacks on Sunday night.

Kuching police chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu said the incidents occurred between 7.05pm and 8.30pm.

“The first incident, which occurred in the King Centre area, involved the use of firecrackers and did not result in any losses.

“In the second incident along Jalan Green, two male suspects came to the premises and threw an object inside, causing two explosions and a fire,” he said in a statement on Monday.

The fire was extinguished by Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) personnel.

Alexson said police are investigating both incidents under Section 436 of the Penal Code, for mischief by fire or explosive substance with intent to destroy.

Conviction carries up to 20 years’ imprisonment and possible fine.

“PDRM Sarawak is actively conducting investigations to track down and arrest the suspects, analyse the materials used, examine closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage and determine whether there is any link between the two incidents.

“The motive is still under investigation, and the cases are being investigated under Section 436 of the Penal Code, which carries a maximum jail term of 20 years and a fine for mischief by fire or explosive substance with intent to destroy a house or building,” he said in a statement on Monday.

He said preliminary investigations found that the two suspects had a similar modus operandi, with both masked and dressed in dark clothing before entering the premises and throwing objects believed to contain explosive or flammable materials into the stores.

Mohamad Zainal said police would also investigate claims circulating that the convenience stores were selling online gambling ‘top-ups’ and take appropriate action, including applying to the local authorities to revoke their business licences.

“The public is advised against making speculation that could jeopardise the investigation.

“Owners of business premises are advised to enhance security measures and immediately report to the police if they detect any suspicious individuals or vehicles,” he stressed.

He said efforts are ongoing to trace and identify those behind the attacks.

“Members of the public with information on the incidents are urged to contact investigating officer Insp Tan Chiang Fook on 018-2628805 or the Kuching district police headquarters operations room on 082-244444,” he said.

Meanwhile, Bomba in a separate statement said a call on the fire at the Jalan Green convenience store was received at 8.19pm.

It said the fire damaged 35 per cent of the store, starting at the front and spreading towards the centre of the shop.

“No injuries were reported in the incident. Personnel from the Batu Lintang and Padungan fire stations wrapped up the operation at 9.03pm after ensuring there was no risk of the fire reigniting,” the department said. — The Borneo Post