Man believed to be member of Rantau Dawai Gang found dead after falling from cliff

GEORGETOWN - A man was found dead after he was believed to have fallen from a cliff near Jesselton Park, near here, yesterday.

Police suspect the deceased was a notorious Rantau Dawai Gang member, which has been involved in a spate of criminal activities targeting affluent residential areas in the city.

Penang police chief Commissioner Datuk Khaw Kok Chin said the unidentified man was found in the forest below, indicating a fall from the cliff.

"Prior to the incident, at about 12.30am yesterday, a police team from Criminal Investigation Department (D9) of Penang Police Headquarters and the General Operations Team from Battalion 1 and 18 were conducting patrols when they encountered three suspicious individuals, including the deceased suspect.

"The police instructed the suspects to halt for inspection, but they didn't heed the order and attempted to flee towards the forest area," he said in a statement today.

A search operation was subsequently conducted in the area, but no significant evidence was discovered.

"However, at approximately 4:45am on Sunday, a police team found an unidentified individual lying motionless on the forested hillside.

"Upon closer examination, a backpack was found next to the body containing various tools such as wire cutters, screwdrivers, gloves, and a meat cleaver, believed to be associated with robbery.

"The investigators couldn't retrieve any personal identification documents. Despite efforts by the forensic team and K9 unit, no additional leads were uncovered.," he explained.

Khaw said the remains was taken to Penang Hospital Forensic Department for an autopsy.

"The remains were transported to the Forensic Department of Penang Hospital for an autopsy, which revealed that the cause of death was a severe head injury resulting from a fall from a significant height," added Khaw.

The case has been classified as a sudden death.

Khaw advised the public to remain vigilant, emphasising the importance of being aware of their surroundings and implementing safety measures to prevent becoming victims of burglary and robbery.