KUALA LUMPUR: An organised crime group linked to armed robberies and at least two murders has been busted following the arrest of 17 suspected members.
Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Comm Datuk M. Kumar told a press conference here on Monday (Dec 29) that the suspects were rounded up during a special operation from Nov 27 to Dec 4.
"This group is believed to have around 35 active members. We have detected (its activities) in the Sungai Petani area of Kedah and parts of Penang.
"A total of 17 suspected members of the group have been arrested, aged between 24 and 42.
"Checks showed that they have several criminal cases linked to them, including armed robbery, murder and drug distribution," he said.
He added that seven of the suspects had been released from prison in January last year.
"They were released, but they then got involved with criminal activities again.
"All those arrested are being detained and investigated under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act (Sosma) 2012," he said, adding that the 17 will be charged in court on Tuesday (Dec 30).
Asked about the murder cases, Comm Kumar said at least two killings had been linked to the group, believed to have been committed because of territorial disputes.
A total of 15 more suspected members, including the leader of the gang, are still being sought.
"We believe all of them are still in the country," Comm Kumar said.
