A 57-year-old man jumped out of a window and fled into a nearby forest yesterday, fearing arrest by authorities.
The Johor State Islamic Religious Department (JAINJ) said enforcement officers went to the man’s home around 6pm to execute an arrest warrant issued by the Mersing Syariah Court.
The man was previously charged in 2020 for buying illegal lottery numbers under Section 18 of the Johor Criminal Offences Enactment, which carries a fine of up to RM3,000, up to two years’ imprisonment, or both.
Upon arrival, officers surrounded the front and back doors, concerned that the suspect might try to escape. His wife opened the door but claimed her husband was not at home. Unsatisfied, officers searched the entire house, including closets, under beds, and bathrooms.
During the search, the man suddenly jumped out of a window and ran toward the nearby forest. Authorities attempted to chase him but were unsuccessful.
JAINJ confirmed that the man had failed to appear in court, prompting the issuance of the arrest warrant. The department has urged him to surrender to the Mersing Syariah Court to resolve the case.
