Photos circulating on social media show a man, believed to be suffering from mental illness, repeatedly kicking several cars parked in a public parking area, causing visible dents to the vehicles.
Police have since confirmed that a report has been lodged and investigations are underway for mischief.
One of the affected car owners, identified as Wen Wan Mei, told China Press that her silver Perodua was parked near the Ipoh Padang area at around 9.15am when she suddenly heard a loud bang.
“When I looked outside, I saw a shirtless man standing near my car. He appeared to be a stranger and was behaving aggressively,” she said.
Upon checking, she discovered a dent on the left rear passenger door of her vehicle. The man had already fled the scene by then. A red car parked next to hers was also damaged, with visible dents believed to have been caused by the same individual.
Wen said she was relieved that she was not injured, although her car sustained damage. A workshop later informed her that they had previously repaired other vehicles with similar dents, believed to have been caused by the same man. Repair costs for her car are estimated to be between RM400 and RM500.
She urged members of the public not to assume dents on their vehicles were caused by traffic accidents, warning that deliberate vandalism may be involved.
The incident sparked widespread discussion online, with many netizens calling for police action and suggesting the man receive psychiatric treatment. Others advised the public to keep a safe distance when encountering individuals believed to have mental health issues to avoid danger.
Ipoh district police chief ACP Abang Zainal Abidin confirmed that the case is being investigated under Section 427 of the Penal Code for mischief. Police are currently tracking down the suspect.
