Melaka police have dismantled the ‘Harraz Gang’, arresting four men linked to over a dozen vehicle thefts and burglaries across the district.
MELAKA: Police have dismantled an organised crime group known as the ‘Harraz Gang’, believed to be behind a string of vehicle thefts and burglaries in the Melaka Tengah district.
Four local men were arrested in a special operation in Permatang Pasir, Alai, on March 19.
All suspects, aged between 24 and 32, were apprehended within 24 hours of a motorcycle theft report.
Initial investigations found the group had been active since January and was involved in at least 12 criminal cases.
These cases involved motorcycle and van thefts, as well as housebreaking and robbery in several areas.
Their modus operandi was to target specific motorcycle models using a modified ‘master key’ or T-bar.
They would then disassemble the vehicle components to sell to third parties.
A record check found all suspects were unemployed and had been released from prison last October.
The suspects have more than 20 serious criminal records related to theft, housebreaking and drugs.
Urine screening results found all four tested positive for methamphetamine.
Two of the suspects were also on the police wanted list.
Police seized six motorcycles, a Nissan Vanette, and special equipment used to steal vehicles.
The total value of the seized items is estimated at over RM50,000.
The case is being investigated under several sections of the Penal Code for vehicle theft, housebreaking and robbery.
All suspects are also being investigated under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
The suspects have been remanded to assist in further investigations.
Police are tracking down several other individuals believed to be linked to the group’s network as buyers of stolen goods.
The public is advised to take extra security measures for their vehicles and park in safe places.
