Residents of Lebuh Sungai Pinang were left in shock on Thursday morning following the discovery of a suspicious object believed to be a fake explosive. The item, described as a homemade explosive, was found placed on a bicycle tied to a tree along the roadside in the residential area.

The area, which houses flats, apartments, shophouses, food courts, and mosques, was thrown into disarray as the news of the discovery spread.

According to Northeast District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Abdul Rozak Mohammad, an emergency call was received at 9:50 a.m. alerting the authorities to the presence of the suspicious object on Lebuh Sungai Pinang 7.

Following the report, the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) Bomb Disposal Unit (UPB) and a forensic investigation team from the Penang Police Contingent Headquarters were dispatched to the scene.

"UPB PDRM successfully deactivated the object at 11:50 a.m., and initial analysis revealed it was made of paper, wire, and cement, with no actual explosives," said Assistant Commissioner Abdul Rozak in a statement.

He further assured the public that the area was declared safe and reopened at 12:15 p.m. The incident resulted in no injuries or property damage.

In his statement, Abdul Rozak urged the public to refrain from speculation or spreading false information regarding the incident. "I advise the public not to speculate or spread false news about this incident as it could cause upset among members of the community," he stated.

Source: Sinar Harian