Tiong calls for comprehensive probe into coordinated attacks on convenience stores across Sarawak
by Yunus Yussop · Borneo Post OnlineBINTULU (Sept 24): The police have been called on to comprehensively investigate a series of attacks on 24-hour convenience stores in several parts of Sarawak, including incidents involving suspected incendiary or explosive objects, arson, and vandalism.
Bintulu MP Dato Sri Tiong King Sing said the cases, reported in Kuching, Sri Aman, and Bintulu, should be investigated collectively to determine whether they were linked.
He said investigations should establish not only those who carried out the attacks but also whether they were planned, directed, or ordered by others.
The incidents reportedly involved outlets of the same convenience store chain being targeted within a 24-hour period.
Tiong said it was particularly alarming that some of the attacks occurred while people were still inside the premises.
“Knowing that there were people inside and still throwing dangerous objects into the shop is a blatant disregard for the law and for human lives.
“This kind of gangster-style behaviour, using intimidation, arson, violence and acts that endanger lives to achieve an aim, must not be allowed to grow in Sarawak. No one should think violence is a way to solve problems,” he said in a statement.
Tiong said the repeated targeting of outlets belonging to the same chain warranted authorities examining whether there was an organised operation behind the incidents.
“Police must investigate who planned it, who carried it out, why these stores were targeted, whether anyone was directing the attackers, and whether this involved an organised operation,” he said.
He also urged investigators to pursue the investigation beyond those directly involved in carrying out the attacks.
“Once the person who carried out the arson is caught, the investigation must go further up the chain. If others planned or ordered it, the real masterminds must not be allowed to escape responsibility.
“The public should not be fobbed off with excuses such as insufficient evidence or an inability to trace those involved,” he said.
Tiong said any dispute or allegation should be addressed through proper legal channels rather than violence or intimidation.
“We must put a stop to gangster-style violence. Violence and intimidation cannot become a way to settle problems. We cannot wait until someone loses their life before taking action,” he added.