By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Oct 16: A midnight fire in Tabuan Desa that destroyed a house, three cars, and eight motorcycles is believed to have been caused by a Molotov cocktail.
Kuching District Police Chief ACP Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah confirmed that a 40-year-old woman filed a police report stating that an unknown man threw a Molotov cocktail into her home’s compound, sparking the blaze.
The fire completely engulfed the house and eight motorcycles, along with a Perodua Kenari. A Nissan Grand Livina and a Toyota Hilux also sustained significant damage. The estimated loss is RM250,000.
“The police are actively pursuing the suspect, and the case is being investigated under Section 435 of the Penal Code for mischief by fire or any explosive substance with intent to cause damage to property,” Mohd Farhan stated in a press release.
This offense carries a penalty of up to seven years in prison and also liable to a fine, upon conviction.
Mohd Farhan urged witnesses to come forward with information about the incident by contacting the IPD Kuching Control Centre at 082-244444, investigating officer Stephen Buda Kiding at 014-8801514, or visiting the nearest police station.
The police also warned the public against engaging in illegal activities, stating that they will take stern action against anyone who breaks the law.
Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) teams from the Tabuan Jaya and Batu Lintang stations responded to the emergency at 11.54pm on Oct 15 and swiftly deployed a team of firefighters to the scene.
Three residents—a 63-year-old man, a 40-year-old woman and a 21-year-old man—managed to escape unharmed, with no injuries reported. — DayakDaily
