Manhunt in Tawau

Tawau, Sarawak on 29 Nov 2009

A farmer from Semporna was found murdered with his neck and arm almost severed at Block 2, Kg Titingan Ice Box, here, late Friday.

The body of Abdul Hakim, 37, who had come to visit a relative at the village to celebrate Hari Raya Aidiladha, was found sprawled on a platform used to dry fish at about 11.05pm.

District Police Chief, ACP Ibrahim Chin said the Filipino, an IMM13 document (Malaysian temporary resident) holder and his 12-year-old son were having a rest at the site when two men armed with parang badung (a curved Suluk machete) attacked them.

Police believe the killing was motivated by revenge and personal problems.

"Following the attack, the suspects jumped into the sea and swam to Block 6 in the village. The weapon, more than a foot long, was retrieved by the public," he said.

They have identified the main suspect behind the killing, he said, adding police immediately launched Ops Tutup, aimed at tracking down the suspects.

"We are still looking for the 27-year-old Suluk Filipino suspect who is jobless," Ibrahim said, adding investigations have been framed under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder.

He urged those with information to immediately contact the police.