Authorities have apprehended 18 men suspected of involvement in a violent riot and the assault of two individuals at Persiaran KLCC last Sunday. The incident, which occurred around 9:00 pm, reportedly began when a group of street photographers, often referred to as “illegal photo touts,” attacked a male tourist from India. The confrontation quickly escalated into a chaotic scene in front of the iconic landmark, drawing the attention of bystanders and eventually requiring police intervention to restore order.
According to Dang Wangi District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Sazalee Adam, a local man who attempted to intervene and break up the fight also became a victim of the group’s aggression. The Malaysian man was allegedly blindsided and attacked from behind with a weapon believed to be a kerambit knife. Following the initial strike, the complainant was reportedly beaten by several individuals as approximately 30 associates of the suspects joined the fray to assist in the assault against the victims.
The police officially received a report regarding the altercation at 1:12 am on Monday, prompting an immediate operation to track down those responsible for the unrest. Law enforcement officers successfully detained all suspects, aged between 17 and 45, in various locations surrounding the scene of the crime. Initial investigations revealed that all the detained individuals admitted to being present at the location and claimed to work as freelance photographers within the KLCC vicinity.
During the investigation process, witnesses successfully identified two of the suspects as the primary individuals involved in the physical attack. Assistant Commissioner Sazalee Adam confirmed that the case is currently being investigated under Section 148 of the Penal Code for rioting with a weapon. The swift arrests aim to address growing public concern regarding the conduct of unauthorised service providers operating in high-traffic tourist areas and the safety of visitors in the capital.
The incident gained significant public attention after being highlighted on social media by influencer and former educator Mohd Fadli Salleh, who detailed the injuries sustained by the victims. He noted that the local victim, who works as a street beverage vendor, was simply trying to act as a peacemaker before being swarmed by the large group. Reports indicate that both victims suffered head injuries during the brawl, which has sparked renewed calls for stricter enforcement against illegal touts operating in the city centre.
