Being a public figure means you are at greater risk of harassment or harm from crazed individuals. There have been several incidents involving local athletes being robbed or targeted with acid attacks, raising significant concern among fans. Recently, Zed, the vocalist for local punk band Armpunk Sindicate, was brutally assaulted by a group of men, reportedly for refusing to kiss their hands in greeting.
Fans and fellow musicians expressed their support for the frontman, and local authorities launched a swift investigation into the incident. Yesterday (Wednesday, 14th May), it was reported that 6 individuals have been arrested for their involvement in the assault.
According to local reports, six suspects were arrested during a series of raids conducted earlier this week, following the brutal attack on the victim last weekend. Their smart devices were also confiscated to assist in the investigation. “The 3 suspects are now being remanded for 4 days until Friday for further investigation. Of the remaining 3 suspects, 1 currently has a criminal record, and the other tested positive for marijuana abuse. All 3 have been remanded for 4 days until Saturday,” said Johor Bahru South police chief, Assistant Commissioner Raub Selamat.
The investigation is ongoing, but Assistant Commissioner Raub Selamat told reporters that authorities are confident the case can be resolved swiftly after footage of the incident went viral on social media. Armpunk Sindicate initially alleged that the attack took place because their vocalist failed to kiss the suspects’ hands in greeting. However, according to a police statement, the incident is believed to have stemmed from a past misunderstanding between the main suspect and the victim during a music event in Ampang last year.
Police are also reportedly tracking down other individuals who may have been involved in the alleged assault. The case is currently being investigated under Section 148 of the Penal Code for armed rioting, Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for the misuse of social media networks, and Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 for the consumption of illegal substances.
As for Zed, there have been no updates from him or the band regarding his condition. However, it was previously reported that he received medical treatment at Ampang Hospital. We wish him a swift recovery and hope that security measures at music events will be strengthened in light of this incident.
