IPOH: Suspecting something amiss, police followed a car in Parit Buntar, which led them to another three men who had just robbed and caused severe injuries to a 51-year-old vegetable wholesaler, says Comm Datuk Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri.
The Perak police chief said the incident happened on Sunday (Nov 27) at about 4pm.
He said as a patrol team was carrying out their rounds around Parit Buntar, they followed a car, as the driver was acting suspiciously.
"As they (police) were following the car, they came across the three other suspects with a sword and parang rushing into that car.
"My men then cornered the vehicle, and the suspects started wielding the sword, and tried to hit the policemen in front of the car to get away.
"In self-defence, and to ensure the car did not get away, policemen had to fire shots.
"However three suspects were arrested, while one of them managed to escape, but police have identified the suspect," he said.
Comm Mohd Yusri said the suspects had earlier robbed the man who supplies vegetables to the Parit Buntar market.
He said they had caused injuries to the man by cutting his wrist and stealing his necklace.
"The man sustained serious injuries, and was sent to the hospital for treatment," he said, adding that the estimated losses are about RM15,000.
Comm Mohd Yusri said after interrogation, it had been revealed that the suspects had been carrying out robberies about 11 times prior to this.
He said those arrested are aged between 47 and 63, and they have previous drugs and criminal records.
"All the suspects arrested tested positive for methamphetamine and morphine.
"We are tracing the other suspect still at large, and those with information should contact the nearest police station," he added
Police are looking for one P. Manimaran to assist in investigations.
Those with information can contact Insp Mohd Zuhilmi Dahon at 013-2604403.
