Heightened Security in Malaysia After Man Tries to Snatch Police Officer’s Gun
In the wake of a fatal attack on a police station in Ulu Tiram, Malaysia, and two men attempting to enter the Malaysian king’s official residence with a machete, Malaysian authorities have increased security measures at key locations across the country.
On May 19, a 35-year-old man was arrested after attempting to snatch a firearm from a police officer at a police station in Penang. The incident occurred at Dato Keramat police station in George Town, a popular tourist destination in Penang.
The suspect, who was under the influence of alcohol, approached the police station gate at around 4am and asked the police officer on duty to open the gate while shouting obscenities. When the officer refused, the man tried to seize the officer’s firearm and used a helmet to attack him. A scuffle broke out, and the man was eventually apprehended.
The man has four records of criminal and drug offenses and is being investigated for using criminal force to deter a public servant from discharging his duty, criminal intimidation, and disorderly conduct in a police station.
Analysts suggest that the recent spate of violent threats to domestic security could be a result of dissatisfaction with society and rising costs of living. Professor Ahmad Fauzi Abdul Hamid, who studies extremism at Universiti Sains Malaysia, stated that the incidents are likely to be psychologically related, with individuals feeling discontented with authorities.
In addition to the Penang incident, two men were arrested for attempting to enter Istana Negara, the Malaysian king’s official residence, with a machete on Friday. The men, aged 29 and 37, are being investigated for criminal trespass and possession of an offensive weapon.
Professor Ahmad Fauzi noted that the incidents reflect society’s discontentment with the country’s economic affairs and possibly a perceived threat against Islam. He added that the disgruntled individuals could be targeting the police as authority figures who interact the most with the public and taking advantage of lax security measures at police stations amid relative peace in the country.
As a result of these incidents, Malaysian authorities have increased security measures at key locations, including police stations, palaces, and homes of chief ministers nationwide