KUCHING: Two men suspected of being poachers, have been arrested by police to assist in investigations into the fatal shooting of a solder during a training exercise in the forest on Monday.
The two suspects, both 31 years old, were detained around 6pm yesterday in Song following investigations and public information.
Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mancha Ata said police also seized a shotgun believed to have been used in the incident, along with ammunition.
"Police formed a special investigation team after receiving a report of the incident around 6am on Monday.
"The investigation led to the identification of the two suspects. A remand application will be submitted for both suspects today under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder," he said at a press conference at the Sarawak police headquarters today.
Mancha said preliminary investigations revealed that the shotgun, believed to have been used in the 2.45am incident, belonged to the father of one of the suspects and had a valid licence.
"Both suspects do not possess a licence to carry firearms," he added, noting that the suspects were hunting illegally, and one of them fired at the victim, mistaking him for a wild animal.
After firing the shot, the suspects, who were on a motorcycle, fled upon hearing screams.
"The shot hit a 29-year-old corporal, injuring him in the left waist, penetrating his kidney and liver," he said.
The soldier, from the 3rd Battalion Royal Ranger Regiment (3 RRD) based in Oya Camp, Sibu, was rushed to the Song Health Clinic before being referred to Kapit Hospital, but was pronounced dead at 7.43am during treatment.
At the time of the incident, the victim, originally from Pakan, Julau, was engaged in the Exercise Pasak Bumi Series 2/2024 in the forest area.
Meanwhile, Mancha reminded the public not to speculate regarding the incident.
He also urged anyone with information to contact Assistant Superintendent Balie Jelian at 011-10702264 or any nearby police station.