A man in his 40s has been apprehended by police in Tawau following allegations that he raped his 19-year-old niece at a residence in Taman Semarak.
The arrest took place in a rented room in Bandar Sabindo on Saturday afternoon, less than 24 hours after the victim’s aunt lodged a formal police report. District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner Jasmin Hussin confirmed that the incident is believed to have occurred around 10:00 PM last Friday while the victim was staying at the house.
The matter came to light after the victim disclosed the assault to her aunt, who immediately sought medical assistance. A clinical examination subsequently confirmed that the teenager is pregnant, though the gestational age is still being determined.
The suspect, identified as the younger brother of the aunt’s husband, is a foreign national who was also found to be residing in the country without valid identification or travel documents.
Further investigation revealed that the suspect has a prior criminal record related to drug abuse. He is currently being remanded under Section 376(3) of the Penal Code for rape, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and whipping. Additionally, he faces charges under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 for illegal entry.
