Sarawak police investigate convenience store arson in Kuching

Sarawak Police have detained three suspects and identified approximately 10 others in connection with arson attacks against several convenience stores in Kuching and Sri Aman on September 20. Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah stated that investigations suggest the incidents were driven by business rivalries.

Authorities believe some suspects may have fled the country. The commissioner noted that arson is a serious offense that can carry a sentence of up to 20 years. Investigations revealed that many of the targeted stores were involved in selling top-up services for online gambling.

In response, local authorities have been requested to take action against premises suspected of misusing business licenses. Police are also seeking cooperation from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission to combat online gambling activities. The commissioner suggested that existing gambling laws, some dating back to 1953, may need revision to address modern technological developments.