Church fire: Eight individuals detained for arson
Revised Article:
Suspects Nabbed for Desa Melawati Church Arson, No Link to Other Attacks
In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, police have apprehended a gang of arsonists responsible for the devastating firebombing of the Metro Tabernacle Church in Desa Melawati. The eight suspects, aged between 21 and 26, hail from diverse backgrounds, with roles ranging from despatch riders to office assistants.
The bust began with the arrest of a 25-year-old despatch rider at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital, seeking treatment for burns on his chest and hands. Investigators then uncovered the rest of the gang, apprehending the remaining suspects at various locations in the bustling Ampang area.
The gang consists of the despatch rider's younger brother, aged 24, his uncle, aged 26, and their friends. Authorities believe these individuals are connected to the arson attack, which left the church's ground floor in ruins.
Police have asserted that the case of the Metro Tabernacle Church arson has been solved, with the perpetrators charged under Section 436 of the Penal Code. This section imposes penalties, including a maximum jail term of 20 years and a fine, for causing mischief by fire or explosive substance with intent to destroy or damage any building.
The arson attack on the Metro Tabernacle Church, an integral part of the Assemblies of God movement, occurred on Jan 8. Witnesses reported seeing four individuals riding motorcycles, smashing windows, and throwing incendiary devices into the building.
The attacks on religious institutions have stirred tensions in the Klang Valley, following a High Court ruling on Dec 31 that allowed the Catholic weekly magazine, Herald, to use the word 'Allah' in its publications. The court's decision was met with an appeal by the Home Ministry, which has led to a temporary stay of execution.
However, investigators have found no evidence linking the arrested individuals to other arson attacks in the Klang Valley. The police urge the public to remain calm, allowing the investigation to proceed undisturbed, and stress that it would be unfounded to associate the suspects with other church arson cases.
As the case continues to unfold, authorities encourages the community to maintain peace and harmony, refraining from actions that could potentially escalate tensions. - Updated Article
- The general-news surrounding the arson attack on the Metro Tabernacle Church in Desa Melawati has also intertwined with crime-and-justice discussions, as police have arrested a gang of eight suspects responsible for the incident.
- Despite the ongoing religious tensions in the Klang Valley following a court ruling and subsequent appeal, the police have made it clear that there is no link between the arson attack on the Metro Tabernacle Church and other similar crimes in the region, emphasizing the need for politics of peace and harmony.
