Local Man Arrested for Homemade Firearms in Keningau

Post by : Shakul

In a significant operation, Keningau police apprehended a local resident for possessing homemade firearms and air rifles during a raid conducted in Kampung Kuala Punteh, Sook as part of Ops Laras. Investigating officers from the Criminal Investigation Department executed the operation, revealing that the suspect was holding multiple firearms without any valid licensing.

Acting on intelligence regarding illegal firearms, the raid commenced around 10 pm on Monday. Upon arrival at the residence, located in the rural area, police found the 44-year-old suspect—a farmer—cooperating without any resistance.

During the search, authorities uncovered two locally made firearms known as bakakuk and two air rifles, along with 20 pellet rounds stashed in a bedroom. All weapons and ammunition have been confiscated for further forensic analysis.

Initial inquiries have confirmed that the suspect lacks any formal licence or legal permission for the possession of these firearms and air rifles. Under Malaysian law, possessing such weapons without authorization is a grave offence. The investigation now seeks to determine if these weapons had been previously involved in illegal activities.

The suspect informed police that the homemade firearms were passed down from his deceased father and that the air rifles were procured from an acquaintance in a nearby country. Authorities are working to substantiate these claims and trace the origins of the firearms as the investigation progresses.

While the suspect stated that he kept the firearms primarily for hunting, law enforcement emphasizes that lacking legal approval for firearm ownership is a criminal offense, regardless of intent. Police have urged the public to refrain from maintaining unlicensed weapons due to potential threats to public safety.

Following his arrest, the suspect was remanded until May 9 to further assist in investigations. This case falls under Section 8(a) of the Arms Act 1960, addressing unlawful firearm possession, which carries severe penalties if convicted.

The recent arrest underscores ongoing concerns regarding the prevalence of homemade firearms and unlicensed weapons in Malaysia's rural regions. Security analysts stress the need for enhanced surveillance and community engagement to curb the illegal use of firearms. The police have committed to continuing their investigations and potential subsequent actions should more evidence arise.

#Asia News #Malaysia News #Crime #police news