Police discovered suspected stolen items, including telecommunication cables and bolt cutters inside the car compartment.
KOTA KINABALU: Three suspected cable thieves not only abandoned their car but also their female accomplice in an attempt to flee from the police in Penampang on Friday (Jan 17).
Penampang police chief Supt Sammy Newton said in the 3.30am incident, officers were patrolling along Jalan Kolopis when they spotted a suspicious vehicle and signalled it to stop for inspection.
"Instead of complying, the driver sped off, leading to a police chase for about 500m before the vehicle skidded towards a river.
“A 25-year-old woman inside the car was arrested, but her three male companions managed to escape," he said in a statement.
Upon inspecting the vehicle, police discovered suspected stolen items, including telecommunication cables and bolt cutters.
Authorities are now tracking down the three remaining suspects.
The case is being investigated under Section 431A of the Penal Code, which carries a penalty of up to two years in prison, a fine, or both upon conviction.
Supt Sammy urged the public to come forward with any information related to this case or other criminal activities, including drug-related offences, by contacting the Penampang police station.