Screen captures from the video that went viral showing the car chase in Kota Semarahan.
A DRAMATIC police chase caught the public's attention, captivating many as it unfolded in Kota Samarahan.
Footage of the pursuit quickly went viral, spreading across social media.
Is it true that a suspect led police on an hour-long chase through this Sarawak town?
Verdict:
TRUE
Police detained a 31-year-old man after a nearly hour-long chase that started in Kota Samarahan and ended in Lorong 6, Stampin Tengah, Kuching early on Tuesday (July 29).
Kota Samarahan OCPD Supt Damataries Lautin said in a statement that the chase began around 2.50am when officers from the Kota Samarahan Police Station, along with the Patrol Car Unit, were conducting a crime prevention patrol near Hotel Roxy, Aiman Mall.
"Our officers noticed a Perodua Axia vehicle behaving suspiciously," said Supt Damataries.
When officers attempted to inspect the vehicle, the driver fled, ignoring orders to stop over the loudspeaker.
The suspect's vehicle was detected speeding towards Kampung Sindang before looping back to Aiman Mall and then heading towards the Kuching District Police Headquarters.
During the escape, the suspect's car collided with a police pickup truck, damaging its rear door.
The suspect after being arrested by police.
Police sought assistance from the MPV Unit at the Kuching IPD, the City Patrol Unit, and Sentral 10 to block the suspect's path.
"The suspect eventually stopped his vehicle at Lorong 6, Stampin Tengah, and attempted to flee into the bushes before being successfully apprehended," Damataries noted.
A search of the suspect's person revealed no contraband, and a check on the vehicle's registration number confirmed it was not reported stolen. The police seized the car as evidence.
Damataries stated that the suspect had prior criminal records related to housebreaking and drug offences in Simunjan.
"The suspect was taken to the Kota Samarahan Police Station for further investigation under Section 186 of the Penal Code for obstructing a public servant in the discharge of their public functions.
"During the arrest, the suspect acted aggressively, necessitating the use of minimal force, and no injuries occurred," he added.
Police advised the public against speculating and urged them to allow authorities to conduct a fair and transparent investigation.
Source:
Police statement
