GOMBAK: A foreign man who hacked off a policeman’s right wrist during an attack at an apartment in Desa Amanpuri, Kepong, was shot and eventually died from his injuries.
Selangor police chief Comm Datuk Shazeli Kahar said the male suspect had charged out of a residential unit armed with two machetes before attacking police personnel, firefighters and Health Ministry personnel at about 7pm on Wednesday.
“The suspect was shot after he was spotted near a playground, not far from the apartment, between 7.30pm and 8pm, shortly after attacking the policeman.
“Police personnel had to fire several shots at the suspect in self-defence and in an attempt to apprehend him after he attacked them with a machete,” he said.
However, the gunshots only injured the suspect, he added.
“Upon seeing his condition, police personnel made efforts to take him to Hospital Selayang for treatment,” he said.
Comm Shazeli said the suspect was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
“The 26-year-old lance-corporal, whose right hand was severed in the attack, is in stable condition and undergoing treatment at Hospital Kuala Lumpur,” he said.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has strongly condemned the attack.He also prayed for the officer’s speedy recovery.
Anwar said all forms of crime and violence, particularly those targeting enforcement personnel entrusted with protecting public safety, were unacceptable.
“Firm action must be taken against any criminal acts, regardless of who the perpetrators are, to uphold the rule of law and ensure the safety of enforcement personnel on duty,” he said.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has also directed the police to conduct a thorough investigation and take action against those responsible for the attack on the policeman.
He said the incident, involving a foreigner who attacked a police officer while the latter was on duty, was deeply regrettable and unacceptable.
“I am deeply saddened and concerned by this incident. Such acts of violence are completely unacceptable, particularly when directed at enforcement officers carrying out their responsibilities to safeguard public safety and order,” he said.
Saifuddin Nasution said the Home Ministry viewed the incident seriously and would ensure that the police conduct a comprehensive investigation and take appropriate action in accordance with the law.
He also reminded the public, including foreigners residing in Malaysia, to respect the country’s laws and cooperate fully with the authorities.
“Any dissatisfaction must never be used as an excuse to resort to violence or obstruct enforcement duties,” he said.
He stressed that the safety of the public and enforcement personnel remained a priority that could not be compromised.
“The law must be respected, and enforcement action will be taken regardless of an individual’s nationality or background,” he added.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the surgery to reattach the victim’s right hand was successful.
“Credit to the medical personnel at Hospital Kuala Lumpur for their extraordinary dedication in managing this highly complex microsurgical emergency.
“It also demonstrates that the quality of multidisciplinary medical services at our public healthcare facilities is of an excellent standard,” he said.
