Malaysia was shocked recently by the distressing case of a little girl who went missing at the Eko Galleria business centre in Johor Bahru on Saturday (20 July).
The 6-year-old girl, Albertine Leo Jia Hui had disappeared around 7.15pm and prompted a massive nationwide search by the authorities, with an insurance agency also joining in by offering a reward for her safe return.
3 individuals have been arrested in connection with the missing child
Now, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has announced that there has been a development in the case, with several individuals being arrested.
In a statement by Johor Police Chief CP M. Kumar, he said that 2 men and 1 woman, all of them Malaysians aged between 28 and 55, have been arrested in Iskandar Puteri, Gelang Patah to assist with the investigation into the missing child.
The case has been reclassified as kidnapping
Furthermore, the Johor Police Chief added that the case has been reclassified as kidnapping, with the investigation now being conducted under Section 365 of the Penal Code for kidnapping and abducting with intent to secretly and wrongfully confine a person.
Those convicted under the provision may face up to 7 years in jail and shall also be liable to a fine.
However, as of the time of writing, Albertine Leo Jia Hui is yet to be found.
The statement further advised the public to refrain from making speculations that could disrupt the investigation and to channel any information through the Johor Police hotline at 019-2792095 or the Operations Room at 07-2212999.
We truly hope that Albertine will be found safe and sound soon.
Also read: Insurance Agency Offers RM50K Reward for Anyone Who Can Return Missing Johor Girl Leo Jia Hui
