A 38-year-old uncle was arrested in Petaling Jaya after a viral video showed him abusing children aged 8-11
PETALING JAYA: Police, here, have detained a 38-year-old man after disturbing footage of him physically abusing children circulated widely on social media.
The viral video captured the suspect caning several children and throwing a chair at them inside a residential property in Petaling Jaya, according to police reports.
Petaling Jaya district police chief Assistant Commissioner Shamsulmuddin Mamat confirmed the arrest to the New Straits Times, and revealed that the suspect is the uncle of the victims, who range in age from eight to 11-years-old.
According to the police chief’s statement, the violent incident was reportedly provoked by the children’s alleged defiance toward the suspect’s mother.
“The incident was believed to have been triggered by the children’s defiance of the suspect’s mother,” Shamsulmuddin explained.
Law enforcement officers have confiscated several items from the scene to support the ongoing investigation into the alleged abuse.
The case is being examined under Section 31(1) of the Child Act, which specifically addresses child abuse offenses. Authorities planned to file a remand application at the Petaling Jaya Magistrate’s Court to extend the suspect’s detention for further investigation.
If convicted under this provision, the accused faces severe penalties including imprisonment for up to 20 years and a fine not exceeding RM50,000.
Police are appealing to members of the public who may have additional information about the incident to come forward. Witnesses or anyone with relevant details can:
- Visit their nearest police station
- Contact the Petaling Jaya district police headquarters at 03-7966 2222
- Reach investigating officer Inspector Irfan Emir Mohd Alwi directly at 016-537 9507
The swift arrest highlights authorities’ commitment to protecting children from abuse and their willingness to act decisively when such cases come to light through social media platforms.
