Batu pahat: Three local men have been arrested to help police investigate the murder of a man whose body was discovered wrapped in netting in Sungai Tanjung Sembrong, Parit Raja, Batu Pahat, yesterday.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Johor deputy police chief DCP Hoo Chuan Huat stated that the three suspects, aged between 26 and 40, were apprehended around Batu Pahat on the same day the victim's body was found. The police were alerted by members of the public at around 12:30 pm on August 3 to the discovery of the body, which was wrapped in netting.

The victim was discovered with his hands and feet bound with adhesive tape, and several injuries were detected on the waist and arms. DCP Hoo mentioned that checks revealed two of the suspects had previous records related to criminal and drug offences. Five mobile phones were seized to assist in the investigations.

According to Hoo, the victim's wife had lodged a police report on July 29 after he went missing in Mutiara Rini, Iskandar Puteri. Initially, the case was treated as a missing person case. Initial identification by the family suggested the body was that of the missing victim, based on the clothing and personal items found at the scene.

Hoo stated that the case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder. All the suspects have been remanded for seven days from today until August 10 to assist police investigations. The motive for the killing remains under investigation, although police have not ruled out debt as a possible reason behind the murder.

He also advised the public not to speculate or spread unverified information that could hinder police investigations.