Two arrested over string of break-ins

MIRI : Two local men have been arrested over a string of three break-ins targeting shops and eateries here recently.

Miri police said the case came to light after the owner of a phone shop in Desa Senadin reported that his premises had been broken into by unknown individuals.

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage showed a suspect wearing a hat and face mask breaking into the shop through the back door at around 4.24 am on Oct 3, allegedly using a tool to force open a padlock.

Acting on information and intelligence, officers from the Crime Prevention Branch of Miri Central Police Station arrested the suspects at Jalan Cythula at around 1.15 am yesterday (Oct 12).

During questioning, the suspects had admitted to involvement in three break-ins in the city. Besides the phone shop, the other premises targeted were a seafood restaurant along Jalan South Yu Seng and a barbecue steamboat outlet along Jalan Senadin.

Police also seized several items during the arrests, including clothing, various prepaid top-up cards, mobile phones and assorted phone accessories.

The case is being investigated under Section 457 of the Penal Code for housebreaking, which carries up to five years imprisonment and a fine, upon conviction. If the intended offence is theft, the maximum jail term may extend to 14 years.

Miri police urged members of the public to report any information on criminal activities to assist investigations and help maintain public safety and order.