Authorities tracking suspects, examining motive behind syringe attack on his son
SHAH ALAM: Extra security has been assigned to former minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and his family following the syringe attack on his 12-year-old son.
Selangor police chief Comm Datuk Shazeli Kahar confirmed that personnel have been deployed for their protection.
“I can confirm that additional security has been accorded to them. However, I cannot divulge details out of concern for their safety,” he told reporters at the state police headquarters yesterday.
So far, police have recorded the statements of six individuals, including the victim, Rafizi and his wife, to assist with the investigations.
“The victim was grabbed and jabbed with a syringe on his left arm. Blood samples have been taken, and we are awaiting lab results to determine the substance injected,” said Comm Shazeli, adding that the boy is in stable condition.
The incident occurred at a shopping mall in Putrajaya on Wednesday, when two individuals attacked the boy before fleeing.
Police have obtained CCTV footage showing the suspects, who were dressed in dark clothing and wore visored helmets, riding a motorcycle.
“The number plates on the motorcycle were fake. The footage has provided fresh leads on the routes used by the suspects, and we are tracking them down,” said Comm Shazeli.
He added that all angles are being investigated to determine the motive behind the attack and urged the public not to speculate.
Asked if the incident was politically motivated, Comm Shazeli said it was still under investigation.
“We will ensure the culprits are brought to justice,” he said.
Police are also tracing the phone number used to send threats to Rafizi’s wife.
“We are investigating the threat thoroughly, even though no official police report has been lodged. Still, we urge him (Rafizi) to file a report as soon as possible,” he said.
Rafizi’s wife reportedly received the same menacing message twice, reading: “Diam, andai teruskan AIDS” (Quiet, or else AIDS).
“This is likely an act of intimidation aimed at influencing my decisions by targeting my family,” Rafizi said in a press conference at Parliament.
