Malaysian police rescue two Singaporeans kidnapped in Johor

Malaysian police have rescued two Singaporeans, a man and his girlfriend, following a kidnapping in Johor. The man, who was reportedly a fugitive from Singapore authorities, had entered Malaysia illegally to seek refuge.

Six Malaysian suspects, aged between 30 and 46, were arrested during the operation. The kidnappers initially demanded S$80,000 in ransom but eventually agreed to S$25,000. After S$5,000 was transferred online, police intercepted a planned drop-off of the remaining S$20,000 at a supermarket in Iskandar Puteri.

The victim sustained injuries to his thighs, which kidnappers used in photos sent to his mother to demonstrate their intent. During the arrests, police seized cash in both Singapore Dollars and Malaysian Ringgit, a luxury watch, a gold chain, a car, and a weapon. Five of the suspects have prior criminal records, and four tested positive for methamphetamine. The suspects have been remanded until August 21, while the victim remains in custody under the Immigration Act.