Baling: Police have seized a shotgun, an imitation pistol, and more than 180 rounds of ammunition from the home of a mechanic who was previously arrested for allegedly possessing illegal firearms. Baling police chief Supt Brandon Anak Richard Joe confirmed the seizure of the two weapons on May 6 after questioning the 45-year-old suspect, who is still in police custody.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the suspect disclosed the location of the firearms he had hidden. An inspection revealed the weapons in the kitchen area and attic of the suspect's residence. Following this discovery, authorities opened another investigation under Section 8 of the Firearms (Increased Penalties) Act 1971 for suspected possession of a firearm without a valid licence or permit. This was announced during a press conference at the Baling district police headquarters.

Brandon stated that the suspect is already being investigated under Section 8(a) of the Arms Act 1960 for alleged possession of ammunition without a valid licence or permit, as well as under Section 36 of the same Act for possession of an imitation firearm. Initial investigations suggest that the suspect allegedly acquired the firearms and ammunition from an acquaintance in a neighbouring country early last year and smuggled them into Malaysia through the border in Pengkalan Hulu, Perak.

The motive behind the suspect's possession of the firearms remains under investigation. The suspect has no record of applying for a firearms licence and has a record related to drugs. Urine screening also found the suspect positive for methamphetamine.

Brandon added that with this latest discovery, police have now seized three rifles and four pistols, including two imitation pistols, from the suspect. The suspect has been remanded under Section 117 of the Criminal Procedure Code until May 11 to assist in investigations. Ballistic tests have yet to be conducted, so it is unclear whether the seized weapons had been used previously.

Previously, the media reported that the mechanic was arrested on May 1 at his workshop after police found him in possession of five firearms, including an imitation pistol.