Post by : Shakul

Keningau police have arrested a local man after discovering homemade firearms and air rifles during a raid at a house in Kampung Kuala Punteh, Sook. The operation was carried out under Ops Laras by officers from the Criminal Investigation Department. Authorities said the suspect was found in possession of several weapons without any valid licence or legal authorisation.

According to acting Keningau District Police Chief DSP Alizam Dalaman, the raid took place at around 10 pm on Monday night. Police officers arrived at the suspect’s residence following intelligence gathered during ongoing enforcement operations targeting illegal firearms and dangerous weapons. The 44-year-old suspect, who works as a farmer, was detained at the scene without resistance.

During the search operation, police discovered two homemade firearms locally known as bakakuk along with two air rifles. Officers also found 20 pellet rounds stored inside one of the bedrooms in the house. Authorities immediately seized all weapons and ammunition for further forensic examination and investigation.

Initial investigations found that the suspect did not possess any official licence or permit to keep the firearms and air rifles. Police stated that possession of such weapons without proper authorisation is considered a serious offence under Malaysian law. Investigators are now examining whether the weapons had been used for any illegal activities before the arrest.

According to police statements, the suspect claimed that the homemade bakakuk firearms were inherited from his late father. He also told investigators that the air rifles were purchased from an acquaintance in a neighbouring country. Authorities are currently verifying the suspect’s statements and tracing the source of the weapons as part of the investigation process.

The suspect reportedly informed police that the firearms were kept mainly for hunting purposes. However, police stressed that ownership of firearms without legal approval remains an offence regardless of the intended use. Authorities also warned the public against keeping unlicensed weapons at home due to the potential risks to public safety and security.

Following the arrest, the suspect was brought before the court and has been remanded until May 9 to assist with investigations. The case is being investigated under Section 8(a) of the Arms Act 1960, which covers possession of firearms without lawful authority. If convicted, the suspect could face serious legal consequences under Malaysian firearm laws.

Police said Ops Laras operations are part of wider efforts to reduce illegal weapon possession and strengthen public security in Sabah. Authorities have continued carrying out raids and intelligence operations to identify individuals involved in unlawful firearm ownership, smuggling, or trafficking activities across the state. Officers also encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activities involving weapons to law enforcement agencies.

The latest arrest has once again highlighted concerns over the circulation of homemade firearms and unlicensed weapons in rural areas of Malaysia. Security experts believe stronger monitoring and community cooperation are important to prevent illegal firearms from being used in criminal activities. Police assured that investigations into the case are continuing and further action may be taken if additional evidence is discovered.

#Asia News #Malaysia News #Crime #police news