KOTA BARU: Police have recorded statements from four men in their early 20s suspected of being hired by certain individuals to threaten the state police leadership.
This followed the recent discovery of red graffiti sprayed at the entrance of the Kelantan police contingent firing range here last month.
Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said the four locals were questioned over the past two to three days over the threatening message found on the wall of the firing range in Bachok on Dec 22.
“We have taken statements from four local youths who are believed to have been paid by certain individuals to carry out the act,” he said.
Yusoff said police had yet to determine whether the case was linked to drug syndicates, but early investigation results suggested it could be related to loan shark activities.
“At this stage, we cannot confirm any link to drug syndicates. However, it appears more likely to be associated with ah long (loan shark) activities. Investigations are still ongoing,” he said.
He added that police were probing the case from all angles, including possible links to drugs or other criminal elements.
The case is being investigated for causing damage by mischief and criminal intimidation.
“We are investigating thoroughly and will not rule out any motive until the investigation is complete,” Yusoff said.
Earlier this week, several photos circulated on social media showing red graffiti with threatening messages targeting the Kelantan police chief at the Kelantan contingent police firing range in Gunong near here. One of the messages read: “Jangan Lari Dato KP”.
Earlier, Yusoff reportedly confirmed receiving a threat believed to be linked to a crime syndicate affected by the state police’s action against criminal activities.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
