SEREMBAN: The suspect involved in the explosion at Desa Palma, Nilai, on Dec 22 is believed to possess technical knowledge and specialised skills in making explosives.
Negri Sembilan police chief Deputy Comm Datuk Alzafny Ahmad said this was based on the discovery of devices and equipment seized from the rented house of a man known as Yeoh Hock Sun, 62, including explosive devices, flammable cleaning agents, as well as carbon and sulphur elements.
“Investigations found that the suspect has knowledge in the field of chemistry and had worked in a pharmaceutical factory for three years, as well as possessing knowledge in the field of information technology.
“An assessment of the explosives found that they were in perfect condition in terms of preparation, materials and devices used, including timers and sensors, and the activity is believed to have been carried out over the past six months,” he told a press conference here yesterday, Bernama reported.
He said the suspect has also been classified as a dangerous individual and is “highly wanted” as he is believed to be directly involved in the preparation of the explosives, in addition to having a previous criminal case under Section 506 of the Penal Code.
He added that an inspection of the man’s house, suspected of being used as a laboratory, uncovered 31 additional improvised explosive devices (IEDs), all of which were destroyed by police.
DCP Alzafny said the Bomb Disposal Unit found that the explosives had a blast radius of up to 20m, with fragments capable of travelling as far as 30m.
“The shrapnel used were nails and a folding knife that were finely shredded. Based on the preparation, we interpret that he had the knowledge to prepare a near-perfect explosive,” he said.
According to DCP Alzafny, the suspect would wear a face mask or hat, in addition to a wig, when outside or in public.
“Witness interrogation also found that he avoided people and was aggressive, had been separated from his wife, children and family for more than 30 years, and had a history of assaulting his girlfriend,” he said, adding that the suspect is believed to still be in this state.
Meanwhile, DCP Alzafny said statements from a total of 14 witnesses have been recorded so far, and closed-circuit television footage from the surrounding area was obtained for analysis.
He urged the public to assist in tracking down the man, and called on any medical centre, clinic or pharmacy that suspects the man may have sought treatment or purchased medication to relay the information to the police.
“This is because police believe that the man sustained serious injuries in the incident. He is currently hiding and may be sheltered,” he said, adding that the suspect was travelling alone and has no links to terrorist groups or gangsterism.
Last Monday, DCP Alzafny was reported as saying that police discovered a suspected IED following an explosion in Desa Palma after receiving a public report at 7.08am, informing them of an explosive object and nails scattered at the scene.
