Local Farmer Detained for Possession of Illegal Firearms

Police in Keningau have apprehended a local individual following the discovery of homemade firearms and air rifles during a raid conducted in Kampung Kuala Punteh, Sook. This operation was carried out by the Criminal Investigation Department as part of Ops Laras. Officials revealed that the suspect was found with several weapons that lacked proper licensing.

Acting Keningau District Police Chief DSP Alizam Dalaman reported that the raid occurred at approximately 10 PM on a recent Monday. Authorities reached the suspect’s home based on intelligence gathered during ongoing efforts to tackle illicit firearms and dangerous weapons. The 44-year-old farmer was taken into custody without any resistance.

During the search, law enforcement found two homemade firearms, known locally as bakakuk, alongside two air rifles. Authorities also recovered 20 pellet rounds hidden in one of the home's bedrooms. All items were seized for subsequent forensic analysis and investigation.

Initial inquiries indicated that the suspect lacked any official licensing or authorisation for owning the firearms and air rifles. Police emphasized that possessing such items without the necessary permissions is a grave violation of Malaysian law. Investigative efforts are underway to determine whether the firearms were employed in any illicit activities prior to the arrest.

According to statements given to police, the suspect claimed that the homemade bakakuk were family heirlooms from his deceased father and that the air rifles were acquired from an acquaintance in a neighboring country. Authorities are validating these claims and tracing the origins of the firearms.

The individual asserted that the weapons were intended primarily for hunting. Nonetheless, police reiterated that possession of firearms without legal authority is forbidden, regardless of intended use. The public is cautioned against possessing unlicensed firearms due to safety concerns.

Following his arrest, the suspect was arraigned in court and has been remanded until May 9 to facilitate further investigations. The case falls under Section 8(a) of the Arms Act 1960, which addresses illegal firearm possession. If found guilty, the suspect may face severe repercussions under the nation’s firearm regulations.

Law enforcement affirmed that Ops Laras is part of broader initiatives aimed at combating illegal firearm ownership and enhancing community safety in Sabah. Police are actively conducting raids and intelligence-based operations to identify those involved in unlawful firearm ownership, smuggling, or trafficking. They also urged citizens to report any suspicious behaviors related to weapons to the authorities.

This recent arrest underscores ongoing concerns regarding the prevalence of homemade firearms and unlicensed weapons in Malaysia's rural regions. Security specialists advocate for improved monitoring and community engagement to thwart the use of illegal firearms in criminal endeavors. Investigations are ongoing, with further actions anticipated if new evidence emerges.