Suspect in Senadin mosque bomb scare incident remanded for four days

MIRI (Nov 18): The 32-year-old man arrested in connection with the discovery of two packages suspected to contain explosives inside a mosque in Senadin yesterday was today remanded for four days.

Miri police chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu said that the suspect, who was taken to the Miri Court Complex, has been remanded until Nov 22 to assist with the ongoing police investigation.

“The police are still investigating the motive behind this incident,” he said when contacted.

The police are investigating the case under Section 298 and Section 506 of the Penal Code.

Earlier today, Alexson said in a statement the suspect is a local man who cuts grass for a living.

He said the police received a report yesterday on the discovery of two packages that looked like explosive items in the mosque at around 1pm.

“The Bomb Disposal Unit from IPD Miri was dispatched to the scene and had taken the necessary precautions.

“Following an investigation, the police confirmed that the packages were not explosive items,” he said.

He urged the public to refrain from speculating on the case as it could cause public unrest.

“Anyone with information related to criminal activities is advised to approach the nearest police station or contact 085-433760,” added Alexson.

The discovery of the suspected bomb-like objects yesterday triggered panic among the mosque’s congregation and nearby residents.

Several police vehicles were seen patrolling the area and residents were advised to evacuate their homes while the objects were checked.