Police have solved a vandalism case involving a prayer hut at Sinundu Miracle Hill, Kampung Duvanson, Putatan, following the arrest of five teenage boys on Wednesday.
Penampang District Police Chief Superintendent Sammy Newton said all suspects, aged between 13 and 16, were detained after investigations were launched following a report lodged regarding the incident.
He said initial investigations found that the incident was caused by an act of vandalism and was not linked to any intention of insulting or degrading any religion.
“The case is being investigated under Section 427 of the Penal Code for committing mischief that caused damage to property, as well as Section 295 of the Penal Code.
“The investigation papers will be referred to the Deputy Public Prosecutor soon for further action,” he said in a statement.
Sammy said police viewed any act of vandalism involving places of worship seriously as such incidents could affect public harmony and community well-being.
He added that the investigation was conducted transparently and professionally in accordance with the law to ensure appropriate action would be taken against those responsible.
Police also advised the public not to speculate or share images and videos related to the incident, as such actions could disrupt investigations or create unnecessary concern among the community.
The police thanked members of the public who provided information that helped authorities resolve the case within a short period.
Previously, police opened an investigation after receiving a report that a prayer hut at Sinundu Miracle Hill, Kampung Duvanson, Putatan was found in a disorderly condition.
Checks at the scene found that several items inside the prayer hut were believed to have been damaged by unidentified individuals before investigations led to the arrest of the five teenagers.
