Police have arrested a 44-year-old local man suspected of harassing several female students near a school area in Kinarut, Sabah, in an incident that took place yesterday morning.
Papar District Police Chief Superintendent Heryan Mohd Tahir said authorities received multiple reports regarding the incident, which occurred at about 10.30am. Acting on the information, police moved swiftly and detained the suspect the same day.
He said the man is believed to have approached the students and allegedly grabbed their hands, claiming he intended to send them to school. The arrest was made at about 6.30pm by the Criminal Investigation Division team from the Papar District Police Headquarters.
According to police, all incidents happened in public areas and none of the students were taken away or physically injured. However, the case has caused concern and fear among students and the local community, raising questions about public safety around school zones.
Authorities also stated that early investigations are considering the possibility that the suspect may be suffering from a medical condition, though this remains under further assessment.
The case is being investigated under Section 354 of the Penal Code and Section 14 of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017. Police have urged the public not to speculate or spread unverified information, warning that such actions could disrupt investigations and cause unnecessary public alarm.
Members of the public with relevant information have been advised to contact the investigating officer or visit the nearest police station to assist in the ongoing probe. The incident went viral on social media after claims surfaced that a man had been disturbing students waiting for a bus in the Kinarut area.
