Police have arrested 13 men, including three minors, following a violent clash involving weapons in Air Itam early yesterday.
The incident occurred at about 2.45am on Aug 29 in front of SJK(C) Kong Min branch and involved two local men, aged 17 and 25.
Penang police chief Datuk Dennis Lim said the confrontation was believed to have been linked to a debt dispute after several individuals had met at a food court in Kota Bali, Paya Terubong.
Police are also probing the involvement of a car that is believed to have struck one of the victims during the altercation.
Five raids were carried out at various locations across Penang between 8.19pm on Aug 29 and 4.22am yesterday, resulting in the arrest of 13 men aged between 16 and 33.
Among those detained were a student and individuals working in the food, delivery and transportation industries, while two suspects were unemployed.
The case is being investigated under Sections 148 and 326 of the Penal Code, relating to rioting and voluntarily causing grievous hurt using dangerous weapons or means.
Lim said investigators would complete the investigation papers before submitting them to the deputy public prosecutor for further consideration.
He added that police would intensify patrols, surveillance, intelligence gathering and targeted operations to tackle group fights and violent crime in the state.
Police may also consider invoking the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma) if investigations establish that the offences fulfil the necessary conditions for such action.
Authorities have urged members of the public not to take matters into their own hands or use violence to resolve personal disputes.
Parents and guardians were also reminded to keep an eye on their children’s social circles and activities to reduce the risk of them becoming involved in criminal behaviour.
Anyone with information about the incident can contact investigating officer Inspector Nurul Izzati Rohim at 013-4092884 or approach the nearest police station.
