PUBLISHED ONAugust 10, 2026 11:47 AMBYSean LerThe Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) has rescued a 72-year-old Singaporean man who was kidnapped in Kedah, Malaysia.
Police said in a news release on Monday (Aug 10) that the man's family had alerted them after being concerned for his safety, including after receiving information on Aug 4 that he may have been kidnapped and that a ransom has been demanded for his release.
According to the police, he had left Singapore for Malaysia on July 26.
Upon receiving information, Singapore police said they collaborated closely with the RMP and shared relevant information with their counterpart.
They then supported the investigative effort from Singapore and worked closely with the man's next-of-kin, providing them with support and assistance.
On Aug 7, the RMP mounted operations that led to the successful rescue of the man in Kedah. He is now safe and receiving necessary medical attention.
A separate statement from the RMP's Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department confirmed that the rescue took place at about 8.40pm on Aug 7.
RMP said police officers carrying out the rescue exchanged fire with a foreign suspect, who was later shot dead.
Apart from the Singaporean man, another female Chinese national in her 30s was also rescued.
RMP officers later seized several weapons, including two semi-automatic pistols, a revolver and a machete at the scene.
Further investigations have since led to the arrest of one Malaysian, and five Chinese nationals.
The suspects are all in their 20s to 40s, according to the RMP.
They are believed to be involved in at least two other kidnapping cases in Kuala Lumpur, RMP said.
Preliminary investigations have revealed that the suspects allegedly used social media and online platforms, including Telegram, WeChat and Badoo to establish friendship with potential victims.
Victims would then be invited to meet in person under various pretexts, including going on holiday, employment opportunities, or socialising.
Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police (SAC) Julius Lim, director of the Criminal Investigation Department, said the operation is a reflection of the "strong and longstanding" partnership with the two police forces.
The police also reminded members of the public to be careful when interacting with persons they meet online, especially when they do not know the person well and are invited to meet in person or go overseas.
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