Police in Butterworth, Malaysia, have detained a man and a foreign lady after finding a handmade IED explosive in their unit at the Taman Pandan flats. When a woman called them to report a strange package that she believed contained explosives, the authorities became aware of the issue. A bomb disposal squad, forensic specialists, and a K9 unit were sent to the location in response. It was discovered upon inspection that the package did indeed include improvised explosives.
The male and the foreign woman, who were housemates, were held by the Seberang Perai Utara (SPU) police after the discovery. Around 8:30 p.m., the Taman Pandan flats area saw the arrest. During their investigation, the police found additional evidence, including a pistol, bullets, and a sickle, all of which were in the possession of the suspects.
According to the SPU police chief ACP Mohd Asri Shafie, the man admitted to learning the techniques of bomb-making through the internet, and the materials used were sourced online as well. He also revealed that both suspects have no criminal records, do not test positive for drugs, and that the case is not related to any terrorist activities. As a result, they have been remanded for four days to assist with further investigations.
The discovery of a homemade IED bomb in a residential area is a cause for concern and highlights the importance of effective law enforcement in preventing potential threats to public safety. The swift response of the police, along with the cooperation of the local community, played a crucial role in ensuring the situation was swiftly contained.