A grocery store operating out of a home in Samarahan, Sarawak, became the scene of a violent confrontation after several men, unhappy with an employee’s service attitude, showed up armed and aggressive. The incident, which took place in Kampung Semera, Jalan Sadong Jaya, escalated into a physical altercation that left two people injured and led to the arrest of three suspects.
Samarahan District Police Chief, Superintendent Damat Dasri, confirmed the case occurred around 6 AM on July 23. According to initial investigations, the dispute began when several men confronted the store employee, demanding an apology. When their demands were not met, they lost control—smashing flower pots, hurling firecrackers, and damaging nearby vehicles.
The shop owner and his friends rushed back after receiving a call but ended up involved in another clash. The shop owner’s 59-year-old father was injured and is now being treated at Sarawak General Hospital in stable condition. One of the assailants suffered serious injuries and is currently in critical care.
Police recovered several suspected weapons from the scene, including iron rods, rattan canes, a hockey stick, a cleaver, and other sharp tools. They also found two plastic bottles believed to contain petrol. Fortunately, no arson occurred. Blood samples were collected for forensic testing.
Three Chinese male suspects, aged 34 to 36, have been arrested under Section 148 of the Penal Code for rioting with weapons and were brought to court for remand. Authorities are also pursuing three more suspects who remain at large. Police suspect some individuals involved may have been under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The police urge the public to resolve disputes peacefully and encourage anyone with information to come forward to assist in the investigation.
