Malaysia Shootouts: Third Suspect Dead in Robbery Spree

A string of violent confrontations in Malaysia has resulted in the deaths of three suspects allegedly involved in a series of armed robberies across multiple states. The latest incident occurred in Bandar Puteri Jaya.

Bandar Puteri Jaya Shootout

On Saturday evening, at approximately 7:50 PM, a 34-year-old man was fatally shot in Bandar Puteri Jaya. According to acting director of the Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Fadil Marsus, the suspect, originally from Perak, was part of a robbery gang involved in armed heists across four states. Marsus stated that “Attempts were made to arrest him, but he resisted and a shootout ensued, leading to his death.”

Authorities recovered a pistol and other items from the suspect, who had over 30 prior criminal records. Police believe this individual was a key figure in a criminal group of more than a dozen members, responsible for armed robberies, gangsterism, and drug trafficking since 2022. The estimated losses are nearly RM6 million (US$1.4 million), according to the Malay Mail.

Jitra Incident Linked

Fadil also noted that this case is connected to an earlier shootout at KM38 of the North-South Expressway near Bandar Darul Aman in Jitra, which took place at 8:05 AM on Saturday. The Kedah and Bukit Aman CID were patrolling the area when they tried to stop two suspicious men in a four-wheel-drive vehicle. The suspects opened fire, prompting officers to retaliate.  

Kedah police chief Fisol Salleh reported that one of the suspects, aged 41, had a record of 41 criminal-related offenses.  

Ongoing Investigation

Bukit Aman CID is leading a special investigation with state contingents and all branches of the Royal Malaysia Police. The case is being investigated under Section 307 of the Penal Code. Malaysia has seen a rise in organized crime, with gang-related activities increasing by 15% in the past year (Statista 2023).