KLIA bomb hoax suspect detained, expected to be charged today

 

SEPANG: A 23-year-old man was detained on Thursday (April 25) in connection with the recent bomb hoax at the KL International Airport (KLIA) cargo centre.

KLIA OCPD Asst Comm Azman Shariat said the suspect, who works as a store keeper, admitted to writing an explosion warning note on a package.

"He claimed it was a joke but did not manage to erase it before a courier agent had picked up the parcel.

"The suspect does not have any prior criminal record," he said when contacted on Monday (April 29).

ACP Azman said the case is being investigated under Section 506 of the Penal Code and the investigation paper has since been referred to the Deputy Public Prosecutor.

"He is expected to be charged at the Sepang Magistrate's Court on Monday," he said.

He reminded everyone, including courier companies, to be more wary of the packages they are handling.

"Don't write on the packages or talk about bombs or explosions when handling parcels.

"The safety and security of the people is our top priority.

"Stern action will be taken against anyone who jeopardise it," he said.

It was reported that the bomb disposal unit was rushed to the KLIA Cargo Centre on April 25 after a package that came with a note warning that rough handling would lead to an explosion was found there.

ACP Azman said the incident occurred at around 1.30pm.

"We received a call from the scanner machine operator at the KLIA Cargo Centre.

"The individual claimed that a package was scanned and the images showed that it had a battery and wiring," he said when contacted.

He said the operator also said that there were words on the package that stated "Do not throw or it will explode" (AWAS JANGAN CAMPAK NANTI MELETUP INI BOOM).

"Checks revealed the package was addressed to an individual in Limbang, Sarawak.

"We immediately deployed a K-9 unit to the scene and it did not detect any explosives," he said, adding that they then called in the Bomb Disposal Unit, according to the standard operating procedure.

He said they destroyed the package using a robotic unit and no explosiom occurred.

"We then examined the package and found a laptop and charger cable inside.

"We also checked with the sender and confirmed that the parcel had contained a laptop " he said. - Star