Border security tightened in manhunt for suspect

SEPANG: State police along the country’s borders have been put on high alert in the manhunt for the suspect in the shooting at the KL International Airport (KLIA), which left a bodyguard in critical condition.Airport security measures will also be reviewed, say police.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said a directive had immediately been given to the state police along the border entry points to look out for the suspect, who is believed to be heading north.

“They are on high alert in case the suspect tries to escape to any of the neighbouring countries,” he said when contacted yesterday.

“We believe the suspect used a semi-automatic 9mm pistol smuggled in from a neighbouring country,” said Razarudin, adding that two bullet casings as well as a bullet had been retrieved from the crime scene.

Hafizul Harawi, 38, is being sought in connection with the shooting.

The 9mm pistols are considered popular for carry and conceal and self-defence purposes. It is also a common choice in law enforcement and military use worldwide due to the low recoil and affordability.

Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) director Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said the suspect did not have a gun licence.

“The suspect is considered armed and dangerous. We want to warn people not to approach the suspect or take the law into their own hands.

“Anyone who spots him is urged to share the information with the police and not act alone,” he told reporters at KLIA yesterday.

Comm Mohd Shuhaily urged the suspect to surrender himself at any police station, warning him not to put anyone else in danger.

He said security measures at the airport would be reviewed as well.

“Truthfully, this is one of the reasons I decided to come to the airport.

“This is not the first time an untoward incident has occurred at an airport here,” he said, adding that security measures would be thoroughly studied.

Asked about safety concerns at the airport, Comm Mohd Shuhaily said this was not a random attack.

“It is a clear-cut incident with a specific target and personal vendetta. People should not be worried about security at airports at this moment,” he said.

Meanwhile, police chiefs in the northern states have confirmed that they have stepped up alerts for the fugitive.

In GEORGE TOWN, acting Penang police chief Deputy Comm Datuk Mohamed Usuf Jan Mohamad said all personnel on the ground have been given the image of the suspect.

“Patrol units have been ordered to be vigilant for any suspicious behaviour while on the ground.

“Security at the borders and transport terminals have also been increased without causing any panic to the public. All is under control,” he said here yesterday.

However, DCP Mohamed Usuf said there would not be any roadblock to avoid further hassle for motorists returning to the city after the Hari Raya Aidilfitri break.

Kedah police chief Datuk Fisol Salleh was reported as saying that they had intensified surveillance operations at border checkpoints, with all border enforcement, including the General Operations Force (GOF) and the armed forces on high alert.

Perlis police chief Datuk Muhammad Abdul Halim said they had bolstered surveillance and oversight along the Malaysia-Thailand border, focusing on known smuggling routes.

He told Bernama that they were coordinating with Bukit Aman, particularly the Serious Crime Division (D9) and engaging GOF.