KUALA LUMPUR:

In a chilling series of events, Malaysian authorities are vigorously pursuing the mastermind behind the recent kidnapping of a foreign businessman heading to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). This incident, which transpired on October 18 along the Maju Expressway near the Putrajaya Toll Plaza, has raised alarms about safety and criminal activity in the region.

Since the incident unfolded, police have arrested eight suspects, including a woman, who are currently under remand. Acting district police chief Superintendent Shan Gopal Krishnan confirmed, "The main suspect is still being pursued," emphasizing the ongoing nature of the investigation.

The victim, a Chinese national and businessman, was reportedly snatched at gunpoint by four assailants while en route to catch a flight to China. Eyewitness accounts suggest that his vehicle was violently intercepted by a Toyota Vellfire, with the culprits swiftly overpowering him right next to the busy toll plaza.

Investigations into the motive reveal a dark undercurrent; as noted by Selangor police chief Hussein Omar Khan, the businessman allegedly owed the suspects a staggering RM300,000 (approximately US$68,800), which he had refused to pay. Remarkably, there were no ransom demands made following the abduction, leading authorities to speculate about the intentions of the kidnappers.

In a related case, the police are also delving into another kidnapping incident involving a businessman in Johor Bahru that occurred on October 13. So far, 13 individuals have been detained in connection with this case, although no new arrests have emerged recently. The victim in this troubling case was reported released after an astounding RM20 million ransom—equivalent to nearly $4.5 million—was paid to his captors. He was taken from outside his home early in the morning as he prepared to leave for an airport.

As these investigations continue, the fear and uncertainty surrounding the safety of foreign nationals and businessmen in Malaysia grow. Authorities are ramping up efforts to prevent further incidents and ensure that those responsible for these heinous crimes are brought to justice.

Stay tuned as more updates on these gripping stories unfold!