The driver of a Perodua Axia, believed to be involved in a hit-and-run incident that injured a traffic police officer on Jalan Sultan Yahya Petra last Friday (10 April), has been identified as a senior police officer holding the rank of Inspector.
Kuala Lumpur Police Chief, Datuk Fadil Marsus, stated that the 40-year-old suspect is currently on special medical leave and is in the process of being retired following the recommendation of a medical board. It has been confirmed that the suspect has a mental health condition, specifically schizophrenia, for which he is currently receiving treatment.
High-speed pursuit and collisions
Following the accident, at approximately 3:45 PM on Monday (13 April), members of the Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) Traffic Control Unit successfully located the vehicle suspected of being involved near Jalan Cheras. The vehicle was found through intelligence gathering and a review of CCTV footage.
According to Fadil, the suspect was apprehended following a police chase that began around Jalan Cheras and concluded at Jalan Empat, Chan Sow Lin, on Monday afternoon.
“He was detected at approximately 3:45 PM by JSPT Kuala Lumpur officers. However, initial attempts to stop the vehicle failed when the suspect sped off dangerously in an attempt to escape,” he said in a statement.
During the pursuit, the suspect’s vehicle reportedly collided with several others. Throughout the operation, traffic police cleared the roads to prevent more serious accidents and to reduce risks to other road users.
“In his attempt to flee, the suspect rammed into multiple public vehicles, including a Mercedes-Benz and a Proton Saga, as well as several others whose owners have yet to lodge reports,” Fadil added.
A video of the incident has since surfaced online and gone viral.
Arrest and ongoing investigation
A police patrol vehicle (MPV) involved in the operation also sustained damage. The suspect was eventually detained with the assistance of MPVs from the Cheras and Brickfields district police headquarters. Subsequent searches revealed no illegal items, and a breathalyser test for alcohol returned a negative result.
The suspect will undergo a urine screening test as part of the ongoing investigation. To date, the owners of seven vehicles have come forward to lodge police reports, involving five civilian vehicles, one police MPV, and a motorcycle belonging to a police officer.
“Those with information may contact the investigating officer, Inspector Muhammad Razif Jamaluddin, on 019-4482852 or the JSPT Kuala Lumpur hotline at 03-2026 0267 / 0269,” the Police Chief said.
The case is being investigated under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for reckless driving and Section 186 of the Penal Code for obstructing a public servant in the discharge of their duties.
