Penang, June 21, 2025 — A 12-year-old girl with disabilities was safely rescued in Butterworth, Penang, hours after a thief stole the car she had been left in near her father’s workshop in Penaga. The shocking incident occurred around 5:30 PM on Friday, June 20, when the girl’s mother briefly stepped out of the vehicle to deliver engine oil to her husband.
The mother left her daughter seated inside the car with the engine still running. However, when she returned moments later, both the car and her daughter had vanished.
Frantic Search Leads to Quick Arrest
According to Assistant Commissioner Anuar Abd Rahman, Chief of the Seberang Prai Utara district police, the family immediately began a desperate search for the missing vehicle, aided by a friend. When initial attempts to locate the car failed, the mother utilized the Life360 mobile tracking app, which showed the location of her phone, still with her daughter, in Bagan Lalang, Butterworth.
Police from the district’s Criminal Investigation Department, supported by officers from the Butterworth police station, acted swiftly on the tip-off. A male suspect in his 60s was arrested at the scene.
AC Anuar revealed that the suspect had a criminal record, including seven past offenses and 11 drug-related charges.
Girl Found Safe After Ordeal
The girl was found unharmed in the stolen vehicle and was immediately taken to Kepala Batas Hospital for a full medical check-up. The case is currently being investigated under Section 379A of the Penal Code (theft of a motor vehicle) and Section 363 (kidnapping).
Police have urged members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or have additional information to come forward. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals, especially in public spaces.