KUALA LUMPUR, July 21 — The police today confirmed that the suspicious object found under activist Siti Kasim’s car is suspected to be an improvised explosive device (IED), commonly referred to as a bomb. This confirmation came after a bomb squad from the police carried out tests on the two plastic bottles found under the car at a service centre in Jalan Maarof, Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur.
In a video clip posted by Bernama on Facebook, Brickfields district police chief ACP Amihizam Abdul Shukor stated that the object was inspected at the brake area of a tyre at the back of the car. He explained that personnel were sent to seal the area while the Bomb Disposal Unit and Bomba were called in to handle the situation. Based on the equipment used by the Bomb Disposal Unit, it was concluded that the two plastic bottles were suspected to be an IED, but further investigations will be carried out for verification.
Amihizam also mentioned that the police are unable to confirm if the IED is still active, and it will be sent to experts for analysis before a detailed conclusion can be reached. At this point, the police have not taken any further statements from Siti, who verbally stated that she did not receive any threats. However, investigations are ongoing.
Earlier today, Siti reported that she had sent her Toyota Celica to a service centre to be serviced, and the mechanic discovered a bomb-like object under her car. The police closed off the road near the service centre to carry out tests and to prevent any untoward incidents. The area of the incident has also been sealed off to the public with yellow tape.
Siti, known for her advocacy work, including the rights of the Orang Asli, posted videos on Facebook to inform the public about the alleged attempt on her life and the discovery of the suspected bomb-like objects. Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain was reported to be at the scene.
Mohd Shuhaily stated that there was material suspected to be explosive material and the case is being investigated under Section 7 of the Explosives Act 1957. This section deals with the offense of attempting to cause an explosion or possessing explosives with the intent to endanger life or property. The penalty for this offense includes a jail term of up to seven years or a RM10,000 fine, or both.
Mohd Shuhaily advised the public to refrain from making speculative statements that could cause public annoyance. He urged anyone with information or queries to contact the Brickfields police hotline or the nearest police station.
