Ayer Itam brawl involved Geng 04 members in debt dispute, Penang police say

George Town, September 1 — Penang police have confirmed an armed brawl in front of a Chinese primary school involved members of the Geng 04 gang. The incident, which left two individuals with severe injuries, reportedly stemmed from a misunderstanding over debts. According to police chief Datuk Dennis Lim Kwang Keng, all 13 men arrested in connection with the incident are believed to be Geng 04 members but from different locations.

The dispute began as a legitimate attempt to help someone retrieve a debt, but escalated to a physical altercation after disagreements could not be resolved. The two victims, both in their 30s, were not part of the gang but were mistakenly identified as suspects and attacked when trying to escape. They are currently stable in the hospital after the attack, which unfolded as they returned from a religious festival. The case is being investigated under specific sections of the Penal Code.