The excitement of 41 local men planning a “War Game” activity came to a halt when they were detained during a special operation, Ops Laras, at Padang Hangus, Gebeng, yesterday.
Kuantan District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Ashari Abu Samah, said the men, aged between 21 and 66, were arrested during the operation conducted from 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM.
Investigations revealed that the group comprised individuals from various professions, including retirees and military personnel, engineers, technicians, physiotherapists, teachers, factory and private sector workers, as well as students.
“During the operation, 406 units of imitation firearms and accessories were seized at an undeveloped Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) reserve land,” he said.
Among the items seized were 65 rifles, 32 air pistols, 130 cartridges, 28 vests, and 35 other accessories including scopes and walkie-talkies. The total estimated value of the items exceeded RM100,000, with a single rifle valued at over RM6,000, excluding additional accessories.
The operation was carried out based on intelligence and public information by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) through Team D9 of the Criminal Investigation Department, Pahang Contingent Headquarters, in collaboration with the TLDM special unit.
The case is being investigated under Section 8(a) of the Firearms Act 1960 (Act 206) for possessing imitation firearms without a valid license or permit.
“If convicted, offenders could face up to seven years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to RM10,000, or both,” Ashari added.
All 41 individuals are remanded until 4 September for further investigation.
Ashari emphasized that although airsoft guns are considered “toy weapons,” they are still classified as imitation firearms under Malaysian law.
“Such activities can cause public anxiety and have the potential to be misused for criminal purposes,” he warned.
