TAWAU: Fourteen boys aged between 12 and 14 have been detained to assist investigations into an armed riot involving a group of students at Ambar Park Playground, Jalan Kuhara, here, at 6pm on Tuesday.
Tawau District Police Chief ACP Rosdi Mat Jusoh said initial investigations found that the incident began with a misunderstanding between two students before other teenage boys became involved.
“Efforts to trace all those involved, including investigations into the riot, were conducted by a team from the District Criminal Investigation Division (BSJD) on Wednesday,” he told reporters, Thursday.
Rosdi said a video of the fight that went viral on social media also helped police identify those involved and their suspected roles.
Police also seized an iPhone 13 smartphone and a black bicycle believed to be linked to the investigation.
“The detainees comprise local teenagers, while a foreigner who failed to produce valid travel documents will also be investigated under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63,” he said.
He said police were continuing investigations to determine the involvement and role of each detainee, with the case being investigated under Section 148 of the Penal Code.
Police are also obtaining the original video recording, recording statements from witnesses and detainees, obtaining the victim’s medical report and working with the school and Tawau District Education Office.
“Members of the public who witnessed the incident or have information are urged to assist the investigation by contacting investigating officer Inspector Robiatul Adawiyah Japri at 016-918 9402 or visiting the nearest police station.
“Tawau District Police issue a stern warning that any act of rioting, attacking another individual or using any object as a weapon is a serious offence and will not be tolerated,” he said.
Rosdi also advised parents and guardians to monitor their children’s associations and behaviour.
He reminded students not to get involved in fights, provoke others or join groups that could lead to criminal behaviour.
