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POLICE have successfully dismantled three active criminal gangs involved in a spate of theft and robbery cases across the Kuala Muda district in Sungai Petani, following a series of targeted operations carried out throughout May.
Kuala Muda District Police Chief ACP Hanyan Ramlan said during a press conference today that in Op Lusuh, conducted on 12 May, police arrested three men aged between 30 and 34 for their suspected involvement in the theft of 45 water meters.
“A total of 45 copper water meter casings belonging to Syarikat Air Darul Aman (SADA), a plastic bag containing 11.05 kilogrammes of burnt copper wiring, and a motorcycle belonging to one of the suspects were seized,” he said.
Initial investigations revealed that the suspects, all of whom have prior criminal records, had been operating for the past six months. Two of them tested positive for methamphetamine.
“The case is being investigated under Section 379 of the Penal Code for theft. Police will also take legal action against secondhand goods dealers found to be trading in stolen items,” he added.
In a separate operation, Op Pintu, also on 12 May, two men aged 30 and 36, believed to be part of ‘Geng Raji’, were arrested. They are suspected of carrying out housebreaking and gas cylinder thefts from homes in residential areas around the district.
Items recovered include burglary tools, a security guard vest, an electric grinder, a water jet, a soap barrel, a car, and a packet containing 0.41 grammes of suspected methamphetamine.
“Both suspects tested positive for methamphetamine and have criminal records related to drugs and theft,” Hanyan said.
Most recently, in Op Sentap conducted on 20 May, police apprehended two men aged 28 and 29 who are believed to be members of ‘Geng Emy’, a group linked to a series of snatch thefts.
“Their modus operandi involved targeting women’s handbags placed in motorcycle baskets. Their arrest helped us solve four snatch theft cases,” he said.
Both suspects tested positive for methamphetamine and have criminal records. The case is being investigated under Section 394 of the Penal Code for causing hurt during robbery.
“These arrests are the result of continued surveillance and intelligence work, and police will not hesitate to act against those who threaten public safety,” Hanyan said. - May 25, 2025
