KUCHING: Police have crippled a grave-robbing gang in Miri with the arrest of nine suspects this month.
Sarawak acting police commissioner Deputy Comm Saifullizan Ishak said the suspects, all men aged 16 to 73, were detained in a special operation by the Miri Crime Investigation Department from Oct 11 to 17.
He said two suspects were recently released from jail for the same offence.
"Upon their release, they continued the activity and recruited others to join them," he told a press conference at state police headquarters here on Wednesday (Oct 28).
DCP Saifullizan said police also seized a hammer, screwdriver and various pieces of jewellery, including necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets, as well as old coins.
With the arrests, he said police have solved 15 grave-robbing cases in Miri which occurred from August to October.
The case is being investigated under Section 297 of the Penal Code for trespassing on burial places.
Offenders face a jail term of up to a year upon conviction.
"Grave-robbing cases are considered to be sensitive because they involve religious issues and can cause unhappiness if not addressed promptly.
"Alhamdulillah, we have taken action against the suspects involved," DCP Saifullizan said.
