GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Criminal Investigation Department successfully dismantled a criminal group involved in a series of robberies and temple break-ins across all three districts in Seberang Prai.
State police chief Datuk Hamzah Ahmad said the Special Investigation Division (D9) launched an operation spanning from July 3 to Aug 23.
He said five raids were conducted in Selangor and Penang during this period.
"As a result, six local individuals aged between 18 and 42 were arrested, including two women.
"Four of the suspects have prior criminal and drug-related records. Investigations revealed that this group's activities have been ongoing since 2022," he added.
Hamzah said that the police seized a motorcycle, RM600 in cash, and several pawn shop receipts.
"We also recovered the gold chain stolen from a pawn shop in Penang," he said.
All suspects are currently under remand and are being investigated under Section 395/397 of the Penal Code.
If convicted, they can face up to 20 years in jail and may also receive caning.
"We remain committed and proactive in dismantling any groups or individuals involved in violent criminal activities that threaten national security and sovereignty.
"We urge the public to cooperate by providing any information related to criminal activities in the state through the Penang Criminal Investigation Department's operations room hotline at 04-222 1624 or at any nearby police station," said Hamzah.