In the early morning of January 10, a shocking incident in Malaysia unfolded at the residence of Beruas Member of Parliament, Datuk Ngeh Koo Ham.
His porch was engulfed in flames, leading to the destruction of one car and significant damage to two others. This unsettling event turned out to be an arson attack employing a Molotov cocktail. The Perak police swiftly arrested a suspect, shedding light on a concerning act of violence against a public figure, according to Berita Harian and Bernama.
The Fiery Morning
The day started with chaos as BOMBA (Malaysia’s fire department) rushed to Datuk Ngeh Koo Ham’s residence upon receiving reports of the fire. Unfortunately, by the time they arrived, one car had already succumbed to the flames, and the other two vehicles on the porch suffered severe damage.
Following investigations, the Perak police, led by Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri, confirmed that the incident was indeed an arson attack using a Molotov cocktail. This revelation raised questions about the motives behind targeting the Member of Parliament’s home.
Law enforcement acted swiftly, apprehending a suspect in his 30s at 4 am on January 12 in Shah Alam, Selangor. The police not only detained the individual but also seized two mobile phones, suggesting a thorough investigation into the potential motives and collaborators involved in the attack.
Suspect’s Background
The Perak police chief disclosed that the suspect had no previous criminal record. This fact adds complexity to the case, leaving investigators to delve deeper into the individual’s background, potential affiliations, and motivations for carrying out such a brazen attack on a public official’s property.
The case is being pursued under Section 435 of the Penal Code, addressing the offense of arson. If found guilty, the perpetrator could face up to 14 years in jail and be required to pay a substantial fine. The severity of these potential consequences reflects the gravity of the crime committed.
Investigation Continues
As the suspect awaits remand until January 16 for further investigations, the authorities are leaving no stone unturned. The motive behind the attack, any potential accomplices, and the broader implications for public figures’ safety are under scrutiny.