Police arrest two men for allegedly impersonating enforcement officers to extort RM1,500 from foreigner in Penampang

PENAMPANG, August 29 — Local law enforcement has apprehended two men accused of impersonating enforcement officers in an attempt to extort RM1,500 from a foreign individual in Kampung Koidupan Sugud, according to Penampang district police chief Supt Sammy Newton. The incident transpired around 12:10 AM when the suspects, aged 19 and 28, allegedly dressed in uniforms mimicking those of enforcement personnel and demanded the victim's identification.

The suspects accused the victim of committing an offense after he could not produce his passport and demanded the sum of RM1,500 to resolve the issue. However, the suspects' ploy was exposed when the victim requested proof of their authority, leading to their immediate arrest by villagers and subsequent handover to police. Police recovered several clothing items resembling enforcement agency uniforms, believed to have been utilized during the incident.

The case is currently under investigation for alleged extortion and impersonation of a public servant, falling under Sections 384 and 170 of the Penal Code. Newton cautioned the public to exercise caution when confronted by individuals claiming to be enforcement officers and urged them to report any suspicious activities to the police immediately.