Cops cripple syndicate stealing cables, tools in Kota Tinggi

KOTA TINGGI: Police crippled a housebreaking syndicate that specialised in stealing cables and hardware tools following the arrest of five individuals, including a woman.

Kota Tinggi OCPD Supt Hussin Zamora said the suspects, aged between 30 and 40 years old, were arrested during a raid that was conducted on Thursday (July 4) at 7pm at a house in Kampung Sungai Rinting, Masai, Johor Baru.

He added that the raid was conducted under “Ops Pintu” by the Criminal Investigation Department from Kota Tinggi district police headquarters.

“There were four men and a woman inside the house, whom we believe had gathered there to consume drugs.

“Inspection inside the house found several items, such as cables, metal grinders, grass cutting machines, hardware tools, and an electric winch, all believed to have been stolen,” he said, adding that all of the items are worth around RM147,000.

He said this during a press conference at the Kota Tinggi district police headquarters, here, on Monday (July 8).

Supt Hussin added that the police believe they have solved at least five cases of housebreaking and cable theft in the Kota Tinggi district.

“The syndicate has been active for the past six months, and their modus operandi is to break into houses that have a garage outside to steal these items.

“The items would then be sold for quick cash, which is then used to buy drugs,” he said, adding that the police believed that there were still other syndicate members at large.

The background checks revealed that all of the suspects have prior offences involving drugs and crime; one of them is also a wanted person for a narcotics case in Seri Alam.

“Another suspect, a 38-year-old man, is also believed to be part of a secret society group, based on the tattoos on his neck and arm,” he added.

All suspects also tested positive for methamphetamine, he added.

The case is being investigated under Section 457 and Section 397 of the Penal Code for housebreaking and conducting armed robbery.

It is also investigated under Section 43 of the Societies Act 1966 for being members of an organised crime group and Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act of 1952 for consuming drugs.

“We are also investigating those who have bought these stolen items from this group and will take stern action against anyone who is found involved in any criminal activities,” he added.