American stabbed in attempted robbery

KUALA LUMPUR: An American was stabbed in the waist in an attempted robbery in Jalan Raja Chulan on Wednesday while walking from Pasar Seni to a fivestar hotel in Jalan Pinang.

Dang Wangi police chief, ACP Zainol Samah said in the 4pm incident, the oil and gas engineer, 58, was stabbed from behind by a man, 30, who demanded his wallet.

“However, the victim refused to give his wallet and there was a scuffle. The commotion alerted a man and a colleague working at the KL Forest Eco Park counter in Bukit Nanas nearby, who rushed over to help the victim.

“The suspect tried to flee but was arrested by patrolling policemen after a 30-metre chase,” he told a press conference at the Dang Wangi police headquarters, here, yesterday.

Zainol said the victim, on a business trip to Malaysia since Sunday, was scheduled to return home yesterday.

“The victim is receiving treatment at Kuala Lumpur Hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.”

The case is being investigated under Section 394 of the Penal Code for robbery and causing injury which carries a jail sentence of up to 20 years, a fine or whipping.

The investigation revealed that the suspect had been arrested four times for rioting, causing injury and drug offences.

Meanwhile, Zainol said those wanting to hold a public rally must submit the application to police at least 10 days from the date as stated under Section 9 (1) of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012.

“However, no application is needed for assembly in an enclosed area but we will monitor the area to avoid any untoward incident,” he added.

The organisers and participants were reminded to adhere to the rules, including no carrying of dangerous weapons and explosive materials, and no children and foreigners allowed at the rally.