Kota Kinabalu: Two local men, aged 28 and 22, were arrested in connection with a theft in Telipok on Dec. 12, following a dramatic chase that went viral on social media.
The incident involved a 56-year-old local woman who lost a sling bag containing her identification documents, bank cards, a mobile phone, cash and car keys with total losses estimated at RM1,500.
The theft happened at about 2.05pm in Telipok. Kota Kinabalu District Police Chief ACP Kasim Muda said checks revealed that the vehicle was a rental car equipped with a GPS tracking system.
This information was relayed to police teams and at 4.20pm the same day, officers conducting Crime Prevention Patrol located the vehicle.
A chase ensued before the suspects’ vehicle skidded off the road, leading to the arrests. Police recovered the victim’s belongings during the arrest.
Initial urine screening tests showed both suspects tested positive for drugs. The case is being investigated under Section 379 of the Penal Code for theft.
The suspects are also being held to assist in investigations related to other cases.
Kasim said the arrest video circulating on social media was authentic footage of the swift action taken by police officers during their duties.
He reminded the public to remain vigilant about their personal safety and property and to promptly provide information to police to assist in crime prevention and resolution.