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A 62-YEAR-OLD man believed to be behind an improvised explosive device (IED) explosion in Nilai on Dec 22 is set to face five charges in court on Friday, Jan 9, police said.
Nilai police chief Superintendent Johari Yahya said the suspect would be charged with three counts of possessing explosives with the intent to cause injury.
The offences were allegedly committed at three separate locations: an apartment unit at Desa Palma, inside a vehicle at the Star Valley parking area, and along the main road in Kampung Batang Benar, Mantin.
The three charges will be brought under Section 3 of the Corrosive and Explosive Substances and Offensive Weapons Act 1958.
Johari said the suspect would also face a fourth charge under Section 4 of the same Act for allegedly using an IED at the Desa Palma parking area, as well as a fifth charge under Section 435 of the Penal Code for causing damage to a public vehicle.
Section 4 of the Act criminalises the use of corrosive substances or offensive weapons with the intent to cause harm, even if no injury occurs, and also covers acts involving explosions that are likely to cause hurt.
“He will be treated at Tuanku Ja'afar Hospital, where he is admitted for care.
“Since this has been classified as a high-profile case, the police have taken all measures to ensure public safety was always given priority,” Johari said in a statement.
He added that the police viewed such offences seriously and would take stern action against any individual involved.
On Jan 3, police revealed that the suspect allegedly constructed the IEDs after harbouring resentment towards his former girlfriend, who left him five years ago. The suspect was said to have frequently spoken to a neighbour about his failed relationship.
He was arrested in the Batang Benar area of Nilai on Dec 27, after police noticed burn marks on his face, body, hands and feet.
Investigators believe the suspect has technical knowledge of explosives, following the discovery and seizure of explosive devices and related equipment from his rented house. - January 8, 2025
