Two men suffered serious injuries following a violent attack at a temple in Jelutong, Penang, believed to have stemmed from a misunderstanding that began earlier at an entertainment outlet.
The incident occurred at about 4.30am on Sunday when a 31-year-old man was allegedly followed by a group of suspects after an argument broke out at a separate location.
According to investigations, the victim was later confronted and attacked at the temple premises by the group.
A second victim, a 64-year-old man believed to be the temple caretaker, was also injured after attempting to intervene and stop the assault.
Penang Police Chief Datuk Dennis Lim Kwang Keng said preliminary investigations indicated the attack was triggered by a dispute between one of the victims and the suspects before the confrontation escalated into violence.
“The first victim suffered severe injuries, including the loss of his index finger, while the second victim sustained injuries to his little finger after trying to stop the attack,” he said during a press conference at the Penang Police Contingent Headquarters.
Both victims are reported to be in stable condition and are receiving further medical treatment.
Police moved swiftly and arrested six local men, aged between 26 and 38, on the same day in various locations around the Northeast district to assist investigations.
Lim said four of the six suspects have admitted their involvement in the attack.
Police have also identified several additional individuals believed to be linked to the incident, with efforts ongoing to track them down.
“We are examining the background of this group, including the possibility of links to gangsterism activities. If such elements are found, firm action will be taken,” he said.
Authorities also seized several items believed to be connected to the case, including a machete, clothing allegedly worn during the attack, six mobile phones, two motorcycles, a car and a helmet.
Checks revealed that some of the suspects have previous criminal and drug-related records. However, urine screening tests conducted on all six suspects returned negative results for drugs.
The George Town Magistrate’s Court has granted a seven-day remand order from June 22 to June 28 to facilitate further investigations.
The case is being investigated under Section 326 of the Penal Code for voluntarily causing grievous hurt using a dangerous weapon and Section 120B of the Penal Code for criminal conspiracy.
Police have not ruled out further arrests as investigations continue.
