[UPDATED] Kepong petrol attack suspect remanded seven days

A 59-year-old e-hailing driver, arrested for pouring petrol on and setting a woman ablaze in Kepong, has been remanded for seven days. Police chief Datuk Fadil Marsus stated that the suspect was detained until August 25 to aid investigations under Section 326 of the Penal Code. Fadil explained that the man admitted his involvement in the incident due to dissatisfaction with the victim.

Police seized several items linked to the case, including a bottle containing petrol, a helmet, a shirt, a Yamaha 135LC motorcycle, motorcycle keys, and the vehicle's road tax. The suspect and the seized items were turned over to investigators for further examination. Initial reports suggested the attack was motivated by a personal grudge, possibly over lottery numbers, involving the victim.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the suspect knew the victim, though they were not close. Police are also exploring other potential factors. The incident, which occurred on August 9, is described as extremely rare and a severe act of violence. The suspect, who suffered burns to his hands, was apprehended at his Kepong residence yesterday, more than a week after the attack.

Authorities encouraged anyone with information to contact the Sentul district police operations room or the nearest police station.