A distressing incident unfolded around 9:30 pm on Wednesday (August 23) when a two-story residence, featuring five bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, and a kitchen, was targeted by a violent act of arson, according to a report by Kosmo.
The 47-year-old Malaysian man responsible for the fire had a troubling history, having been released from prison in June after serving time for drug-related offenses. Seberang Prai Utara district police chief Assistant Commissioner Mohd Asri Shafie confirmed this background information to the Malay daily.
The incident was reportedly sparked by a heated dispute that occurred roughly thirty minutes prior to the fire. The man had become irate with his brother after the latter refused to purchase cigarettes for him. Unable to contain his anger, the brother sought help by reporting the situation at the Kepala Batas police station. In an unexpected turn of events, a neighbor contacted the brother on his way to the police station, informing him that the suspect had set fire to the house. The authorities were able to apprehend the arsonist.
During the time of the incident, the suspect’s mother was away in Balik Pulau, visiting her daughter. As a result of the arson, the house sustained extensive damage, with 95% of the structure being destroyed. Tragically, the fire consumed not only the house but also four motorcycles and all the family’s possessions. Additionally, the fire’s reach extended to a neighbor’s house, causing damage to its wall.
The incident serves as a somber reminder of the destructive consequences that can arise from unchecked emotions and conflicts. The aftermath has left a family homeless and a community shaken by the unexpected violence that unfolded within their midst.