Terry Pratchet once wrote, “Little crimes breed big crimes.” When you get away with little things, you start to feel as though you can get away with bigger ones.
A local businessman was arrested for caning and threatening his two bodyguards for wanting to fast. Investigations later showed he has been involved in illegal money-lending and gambling activities.
The businessman was arrested on Wednesday night (14th April). Three other employees who were involved in the incident were also detained. On 15th April, the group was brought to the Klang Court. Three were wearing orange prison clothes while another was wearing a simple collar shirt. He was suspected to be the employer. The group wore masks and avoided the cameras as they were brought in.
Later that day, at 11:30am, Selangor police chief Datuk Arjunaidi Mohamed held a press conference to announce the progress of the case. He revealed that during the arrests, the police seized a gun, 10 bullets and the cane used to beat the two bodyguards. The firearm belonged to the security company the victims worked for.
“The arrests also led to the discovery of 100 kilogrammes of gold bars and 12,500 pieces of US$100 notes, with the total value of the seizure estimated at RM28.25 million,” Datuk Arjunaidi stated. “The preliminary investigation revealed that the 44-year-old employer was involved in illegal money-lending and gambling activities.” He added that the four men have been remanded to assist in the investigation. One of the men has been detained for 7 days, while the others have been remanded for 3 to 5 days. The main suspect has been remanded for 3 days.
The case is being investigated under Sections 324, 298 and 307 of the Penal Code as well as Section 4 (1) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds from Illegal Activities Act 2001 and Section 5 (2) of the Moneylenders Act 1951.
Datuk Arjunaidi emphasised that the assault was a personal dispute. He reminded the public to not view the case as a racial issue.
Sources: China Press (1)(2), Malay Mail, New Straits Times
