Kota Kinabalu: City police busted a gang of 13 motorcycle thieves who would sell them at RM500 each, mostly to estate workers, for drug money.
City Police Chief ACP Kasim Muda said two main suspects were arrested after one of their girlfriends confessed following an 11.30am raid at Api-Api Centre on Wednesday (Dec 18).
“Police managed to retrieve six motorcycles reported missing in Kota Kinabalu and four in Penampang, Ranau and Kota Kinabatangan, including one that was stripped for parts.
“All of the suspects who tested positive for syabu confessed to the crime while background checks on eight revealed criminal records of housebreaking and drugs,” he said.
According to him, the gang often targeted motorcycles parked in public areas overnight usually owned by those staying in Pulau Gaya.
The motorcycles would then be taken to the main suspect’s house, a mechanic, to change the plate number.
Police are meanwhile searching for another accomplice known as Alex.
“Motorcycle owners are advised to take security initiatives like a disc brake lock and park them in view,” he told a press conference, Thursday.
The case is being investigated under Section 379A of the Penal Code.
In a separate case, Kasim said nine adults, including three women, in their 20s were arrested during a drug party at a condo here earlier this week.
He said four types of drugs in small quantities were confiscated while all tested positive.
“All suspects, including one passport holder, were charged under Section 15 of the Dangerous Drugs Act with the exception of another under 39A on suspicion of supplying the party,” he said.
