Explosion damages 3 homes in Bukit Mertajam, likely over debt dispute
PETALING JAYA : A powerful explosion early this morning damaged three houses in Bukit Mertajam, Penang, with police suspecting the incident was linked to a debt dispute.
Seberang Perai Tengah police chief Helmi Aris said initial investigations indicated that firecrackers were thrown into one of the houses, causing a significant explosion that damaged the targeted home and two adjacent properties.
The ceilings and front yards of all three homes were damaged by the 1.05am blast. Two vehicles parked outside the affected homes were also damaged by the impact, said Helmi in a statement.
'The incident is suspected to be related to a debt. The suspects are believed to be two unidentified men who fled in a car,' he said.
Helmi called on members of the public who witnessed the incident or have any information to contact the Seberang Perai Tengah police or senior investigating officer Assan Alimudin at 012-4418081.
The case is being probed for committing mischief by fire under Section 435 of the Penal Code, which provides for a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison and a fine, upon conviction.
The case is also being investigated under Section 6 of the Explosives Act 1957 for causing an explosion likely to endanger life or property, punishable by up to seven years' imprisonment, a fine of RM10,000, or both, upon conviction.
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