A family dispute over a wife’s overnight stay at her parents’ home escalated into a frightening incident when two men threatened the father-in-law with sharp weapons in Kampung Pengkalan Asli Merotai on Sunday evening.
Tawau District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Jasmin Hussin, said the incident occurred around 8pm when the suspects, including the son-in-law of the 63-year-old victim, arrived at the elderly man’s home and became aggressive.
“Initial investigations revealed that the main suspect, the son-in-law, was wielding a samurai sword, while his younger brother carried a parang, threatening the victim and causing fear,” Jasmin said in a statement on Monday.
The dispute reportedly started after the main suspect’s wife, the victim’s daughter, wanted to stay overnight at her father’s house. The son-in-law opposed the visit, which led to an argument.
Following the threat, the victim lodged a police report seeking protection and action. Acting on the report, Tawau police arrested both suspects around 12.10am in front of a house in Kampung Merotai Besar.
Jasmin noted that the 39-year-old main suspect, a lorry driver, has a past record involving threats and burglary, while the 27-year-old younger brother has no prior criminal history.
He emphasized that the police will not tolerate threats, violence, or the use of weapons that endanger public safety.
“The public is advised to resolve disputes through legal channels and report any dangerous situations immediately,” he added.
