Residents in Kepong, Kuala Lumpur, have been urged to stay vigilant after a man was caught on CCTV stealing women’s underwear that had been hung out to dry outside residential homes. The disturbing incidents, which occurred in two different neighbourhoods, have sparked outrage and concern among locals.
Caught on Camera in Two Neighbourhoods
According to China Press, CCTV footage revealed a man scaling the gates of terrace houses late at night before stealing women’s undergarments from clothes racks. The footage showed the man behaving casually as he selected items, appearing “as if shopping”, before climbing back over the gate and leaving the scene with the stolen underwear.
Assistant to Kepong Member of Parliament Lim Lip Eng, Dic Lai, confirmed that the thefts took place in Taman Kepong and Taman Daya on 28 September and 3 October. Lai shared that residents had spotted the man cycling around the neighbourhoods before the incidents occurred.
“The man was seen wearing a yellow shirt in both videos, and his face was clearly captured by the CCTV. Some residents even recognised him as someone who often loiters around the Jinjang Utara area,” Lai said.
Linked to Similar Thefts in the Past
Lai also noted that similar thefts were reported around six months ago in the same area, but authorities have yet to confirm if the same individual was involved. He expressed concern that women’s underwear hung within private compounds is increasingly becoming a target for such offenders.
So far, two victims have lodged police reports. Lai encouraged anyone who experienced similar thefts to do the same, stressing that more reports would help authorities collect evidence and strengthen police patrols in the area.
Police Urge Residents to Stay Alert
The police are now investigating the thefts and working to identify the man seen in the CCTV footage. In the meantime, residents—especially women—are being urged to take precautions such as drying clothes indoors or installing motion-sensor lights and cameras around their homes.
This latest case of underwear theft has once again highlighted the importance of community awareness and neighbourhood watch efforts in preventing such crimes.
Locals are hoping that the suspect will be arrested soon before more incidents occur. Those living in Taman Kepong, Taman Daya, and nearby areas are reminded to stay cautious and report any suspicious individuals or behaviour to the authorities immediately.