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TAWAU: July 5, 2026 – Police have detained 10 local male students aged between 14 and 17 to assist in the investigation of a riot that left four students injured in Merotai Besar on Friday.
According to Tawau District Police Acting Chief Superintendent Wilynton Enchana Watt, all suspects were arrested at around 2pm during an operation conducted by the Criminal Investigation Division of the Tawau District Police Headquarters and officers from the Bombalai police station.
Initial investigations revealed that a 14-year-old victim and three of his friends were taking a shortcut to the Merotai Besar Mosque to perform Friday prayers when they were approached by a group of students who asked about the whereabouts of two other individuals.
“After the victim said he did not know the location they were looking for, the group of students are believed to have attacked and beaten the victim in a group assault,” Mr Wilynton said in a media statement.
The victim sustained injuries to his face, head, chest and ribs, while his three friends were also hurt. All four victims subsequently came forward to file police reports.
Police confirmed the case is being investigated under Section 147 of the Penal Code for rioting. Further investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the incident.
Mr Wilynton stressed that police take any form of violence involving students seriously and would not compromise with any individual who breaks the law.
He advised parents and guardians to constantly monitor their children’s social circles and behaviour, while schools and the community were urged to continue cooperating with police to curb the phenomenon of violence among students.
Members of the public with information about the incident are requested to contact Investigating Officer Sergeant Chong Fung Mee or visit the nearest police station.
— Source: Tawau District Police
