KOTA KINABALU, Oct 30 — Sabah police have crippled an armed syndicate linked to 17 gang robbery and luxury house-breaking cases involving RM304,500 in losses across several districts since early this year, said Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun.

He said the breakthrough was achieved through two special operations, Op Casa and Op Pintu, following the formation of a special task force in September to investigate two armed robberies reported in the state capital in August.

Six men, aged between 30 and 43 with a combined 75 criminal and drug-related records, were detained, while police have launched a manhunt for several other suspects still at large.

“Police also seized various valuables, including luxury watches, designer handbags, electronic devices, cars, fishing equipment, and a safe box.

“The syndicate targeted unoccupied luxury residences and did not hesitate to use bladed weapons to intimidate victims if anyone was inside,” he said in a statement yesterday.

Jauteh said investigation papers have been completed and all suspects are scheduled to be charged at the Kota Kinabalu Magistrate’s Court today.

They will face charges under Sections 395 and 397 of the Penal Code for armed gang robbery, and Section 457 of the same code for house-breaking.

The suspects also face charges under Sections 411 and 414 of the Penal Code for retaining and disposing of stolen property, Section 447 for criminal trespass, and Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63.

“Police remain committed to taking continuous action against any individual or group involved in criminal activities to ensure the peace and wellbeing of the community, especially in Sabah, are safeguarded,” he said. — Bernama