10 more nabbed over Air Itam armed clash, arrests now 23

GEORGE TOWN - Police have apprehended an additional ten individuals in connection with an armed altercation in Air Itam, raising the overall count of arrests to 23, according to Penang police chief Datuk Dennis Lim. The latest detentions transpired as a result of a series of operations conducted in Penang and Selangor between August 30 and September 4.

The suspects, aged between 19 and 56, were apprehended following the incident on August 29, which occurred at 2:45 am in front of SJK(C) Kong Min Branch Two in Air Itam. The confrontation involved three local men, aged between 17 and 25, who were assaulted with weapons, while another victim was struck by a vehicle.

Initial investigations have revealed that the incident originated from a dispute over debt, following a meeting at a food court in Paya Terubong. Initially, 13 suspects were detained, including three minors. Police have initiated two investigation papers, probing the matter under Sections 148, 326, and 120B of the Penal Code, as well as Section 307 for attempted murder.

Section 148 pertains to rioting armed with a deadly weapon, Section 326 covers causing grievous hurt through dangerous weapons or means, and Section 120B is related to criminal conspiracy. Section 307 pertains to attempted murder.

Lim stated that the police would continue to enhance intelligence gathering, patrols, monitoring, and targeted operations to prevent group fights and violent crime. He urged the public not to resort to violence to resolve disputes and cautioned against taking the law into their own hands. Additionally, authorities may consider invoking the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma) if investigations determine the offenses meet the criteria for its application.