KUCHING: A high-speed chase in the early hours of Tuesday morning by Samarahan police patrolling team led to the arrest of a 31 year old man with multiple past criminal records.
Kota Samarahan District Police Chief DSP Damaterius Lautin, the incident began at approximately 2.50 am when two officers on patrol, including a corporal and a constable, spotted a suspicious white Perodua Axia parked behind Roxy Hotel at Aiman Mall.
“When the officers approached and identified themselves, the driver suddenly sped off towards Kampung Sindang before doubling back to Aiman Mall,” said Damaterius.
Despite repeated warnings through a loudspeaker, the driver refused to stop, prompting police to call for reinforcement from the Kota Samarahan Police Community Patrol Unit (CPJ) and MPV units SAM 288 and SAM 286.
During the pursuit, the suspect’s vehicle struck a police Toyota Hilux, causing visible scratches and a dent to the left rear door.
“The chase continued into Kuching police district territory. Our team coordinated with Kuching IPD operations centre, which dispatched additional MPV units KCH 61, KCH 56, LCH 58, as well as the URB and Sentral 10 teams,” he said.
After nearly an hour of pursuit, the suspect abandoned the car at Lorong 6, Stampin Tengah, and attempted to flee into nearby bushes on foot. He was quickly apprehended by the pursuing officers.
Checks revealed the suspect to be from Kampung Kelka, Simunjan. No illegal items were found on him, and the car’s registration was verified with police systems and found not to be reported stolen.
Police also seized the Perodua Axia and its key from the scene. The suspect, who has a criminal history involving house break-ins and drug offences in Simunjan from 2020 to 2022, was taken to Kota Samarahan police station for further investigation.
“The suspect was unarmed but acted aggressively during arrest. Minimal force was used to subdue him. He has been informed of the reason for his arrest in a language he understands, and his rights have been explained under Section 28A of the CPC,” Damaterius said.
The case is being investigated under Section 186 of the Penal Code for obstructing a public servant in discharge of their duties.
By Connie Chieng