The suspect and victim in a Padang Serai shooting both have extensive criminal histories, with 13 and 12 prior convictions respectively.
KULIM: The suspect in a recent shooting in Padang Serai has 13 prior criminal and drug-related convictions. Kulim deputy police chief DSP Tengku Mohd Faisal Tengku Yeng confirmed the 42-year-old lorry driver’s extensive record.
The suspect was arrested within 24 hours of the March 21 incident at a house in Kampung Naga Lilit. Police seized a .38-calibre revolver, 10 bullets with casings, a car, and a mobile phone during the arrest.
He tested negative for drugs at the time of his arrest. The suspect has been remanded for six days until March 26 to assist with the investigation.
Preliminary investigations indicate the suspect and the 32-year-old victim knew each other. The victim was reportedly on his way to his mother’s house in Kampung Permatang Durian in the early hours last Saturday.
Witnesses said an argument broke out before the suspect fired a shot. The victim was hit in the right arm and chest before the suspect fled the scene.
The victim, a factory operator, is receiving treatment at Kulim Hospital and is in stable condition. Initial medical reports show the gunshot did not hit any critical internal organs.
A check on the victim’s record revealed 12 prior criminal and drug-related offences. The motive for the shooting has yet to be determined by police.
The case is being investigated under Section 307 of the Penal Code for attempted murder. It is also being probed under Section 3 of the Firearms (Increased Penalties) Act 1971.
