Malaysian Man Arrested For Robbing Woman In Batam After Running Out Of Cash While On Holiday

A Malaysian man has been arrested in Batam, Indonesia, after allegedly robbing a local woman and injuring a police officer while attempting to flee the scene.

According to reports, the 41-year-old suspect from Melaka targeted a 48-year-old woman shortly after she paid her vehicle tax at the Samsat counter in Harbour Bay and withdrew cash from an ATM.

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When the woman returned to her car, the suspect allegedly entered through the front passenger door and ordered her to drive towards Bukit Senyum. Upon arriving at a residential area, he reportedly brandished an airsoft gun and a knife, demanding that she transfer money into his bank account.

Instead of complying, the victim screamed for help. Panicking, the suspect allegedly pushed her out of the vehicle.

He then attempted to flee in the victim's Toyota Rush, taking several of her belongings. The stolen items were estimated to be worth around Rp292 million (approximately RM73,000).

He allegedly bought the airsoft gun from a security guard for Rp1 million

However, the suspect's escape was short-lived.

The victim's cries for help attracted the attention of a traffic police officer who happened to be nearby. The officer pursued the stolen vehicle and managed to block the suspect's path.

In a desperate attempt to escape, the suspect allegedly pointed the airsoft gun at the officer before driving into him with the vehicle. The officer reportedly sustained injuries during the incident.

The Head of the Barelang Police Criminal Investigation Division, Commissioner Tri Poerbowo, said investigators believe the suspect resorted to the crime after running out of money while vacationing in Indonesia.

"He entered Indonesia on 15 September but overstayed by 10 days after failing to secure enough money to fund his return trip to Malaysia. He then began planning a robbery to obtain money to return home. The victim was chosen at random."

Further investigations revealed that the suspect had allegedly purchased the airsoft gun used in the robbery from a security guard at an apartment complex for Rp1 million (RM224.52).

The security guard has since been arrested to assist with investigations.

Image Credit: Berita Harian

Indonesian police have also seized the stolen Toyota Rush, Rp1 million in cash, a bag, an airsoft gun with five carbon dioxide (CO₂) cartridges, and a knife.

The suspect is being investigated under Article 365 of Indonesia's Criminal Code, which covers robbery involving force or violence. If convicted, he could face a prison sentence of up to nine years.

Featured Image Credit: Vecteezy, Berita Harian