Sarawak police to enlist Interpol over Kuching convenience store attacks

Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah (centre) attends the monthly assembly at the Sarawak Contingent Police Headquarters in Kuching, Sarawak on September 30, 2026. — Bernama pic

First Published: Wednesday, 30 Sep 2026 12:24 PM MYT

KUCHING, Sept 30 — Police will seek assistance from international law enforcement agencies, including Interpol, to track several individuals believed to have fled the country in connection with attacks on convenience stores in several parts of Sarawak recently.

Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah, who is also the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) Management Department director, said three individuals had been arrested so far, while about 10 others had been identified as being linked to the group.

“We have identified about 10 individuals so far, and there may be more from this group. Some have been identified as having fled the country,” he told reporters after attending the Sarawak Police Contingent’s monthly assembly at the state’s Police Contingent Headquarters here today.

He said investigations found that the incidents were believed to stem from a business dispute, including the sale of top-ups allegedly used for online gambling activities.

Mohamad Zainal said police had also identified the misuse of business licences by some convenience stores involved in selling the top-ups and would write to the local authorities (PBT) for further action.

On Sept 21, Mohamad Zainal said police were hunting suspects linked to attacks on convenience stores in Kuching and Sri Aman on Sept 20, in which objects believed to contain explosive or flammable materials were thrown into the premises.

Police received two reports of the incidents, which had a similar modus operandi.

Meanwhile, Mohamad Zainal said police were close to completing their investigation into the Air Medical Services (FDS) helicopter crash in Long Lellang, although the cause had yet to be determined.

He said investigations so far had found no indication of sabotage.

“We believe the incident may have been caused by technical problems, but this will depend on the investigation by the Air Accident Investigation Bureau (BSKU), which will announce its findings,” he added. — Bernama