A 42-year-old lorry driver has been detained by the police after allegedly shooting a friend in front of a residence at Kampung Permatang Durian, Padang Serai. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning, left the 32-year-old victim with gunshot wounds to his right arm and chest. Kulim Deputy District Police Chief Superintendent Tengku Mohd Faisal Tengku Yeng confirmed that the suspect was apprehended in front of a house in Kampung Naga Lilit within 24 hours of the reported assault.
The shooting reportedly took place at approximately 12.01 am on 21 March 2026, following a heated argument between the two men. According to police statements, the suspect discharged a single shot before fleeing the scene. The victim, who is employed as a factory operator, was immediately rushed to Kulim Hospital for medical attention. Medical examinations later confirmed that the bullet did not strike any critical internal organs, and the victim is currently reported to be in stable condition.
Investigations revealed that both the suspect and the victim have extensive criminal records involving various offences and narcotics. The suspect is documented to have 13 previous criminal records, while the victim has 12. During the arrest, the police successfully recovered a .38 caliber revolver, ten live bullets, and two spent casings. Authorities also seized a yellow Honda Civic and several items of clothing believed to have been used by the suspect during the commission of the crime.
The suspect has been remanded for six days until 26 March to facilitate a comprehensive investigation into the motive behind the shooting. The case is being investigated under Section 307 of the Penal Code for attempted murder and Section 3 of the Firearms Act (Increased Penalties) 1971. The latter carries significant legal weight, highlighting the severity of the charges faced by the accused lorry driver following the violent escalation of the dispute.
Superintendent Tengku Mohd Faisal advised the public to refrain from making any speculations regarding the case, as it could potentially interfere with ongoing police proceedings. The authorities are currently working to establish the exact cause of the argument that led to the shooting. As the investigation continues, the police remain committed to ensuring that all aspects of the violent encounter are thoroughly scrutinised and brought before the judicial system.
