A 24-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly raping his 19-year-old neighbour at a village in Tawau on Tuesday.
The suspect, who works as a barber, was arrested at around 10pm on Thursday by officers from the Tawau district police headquarters’ Criminal Investigation Division.
Tawau district police chief Assistant Commissioner Rosdi Mat Jusoh said police acted after receiving a report from the victim, who alleged that she had been raped by someone she knew.
The incident reportedly occurred at around 10pm on Tuesday after the victim allowed the suspect into her home to help repair her mobile phone.
“The suspect allegedly took the victim into a room before committing the offence,” Rosdi said in a statement on Saturday.
He said the case was being investigated under Section 376(1) of the Penal Code, with further investigations ongoing.
Rosdi also urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid allowing people into their homes indiscriminately, even if they are neighbours or acquaintances, particularly when alone.
“Prioritise your personal safety and avoid being alone with individuals who may pose a risk.
“Any suspicious incident or behaviour should be reported to the police immediately for further action,” he said.
