PETALING JAYA, January 11 – A photographer has been arrested for allegedly assaulting two fashion designers during an awards event at a hotel in Petaling Jaya. The incident, believed to stem from a personal dispute over unpaid debts, left the two victims injured and has raised questions about escalating tensions in professional relationships.
Petaling Jaya district police chief ACP Shahrulnizam Ja’afar confirmed that police received reports about the incident at 11pm last night. “The suspect, a 30-year-old local photographer, was arrested at the scene. A camera, believed to have been used as a weapon, was seized. The victims, two local men aged 53 and 47, sustained injuries to their cheeks,” he said in a statement. Initial investigations suggest the altercation arose from a debt-related disagreement.
One of the victims, Razman, took to social media to shed light on the incident. He claimed that the suspect had repeatedly exhibited aggressive behavior over a financial dispute. “I met him three weeks ago at another event. I paid him partially and assured him I would settle the remaining debt this month. Despite this, he has been rude, yelling, and threatening us every time we meet,” Razman wrote, adding that he never anticipated the situation would escalate to violence.
The suspect is currently under a two-day remand as investigations continue under Section 324 of the Penal Code, which covers voluntarily causing hurt with a weapon. The suspect is scheduled to be charged at the Petaling Jaya Magistrates’ Court today.
The incident has sparked discussions within the fashion and creative industries about maintaining professionalism and addressing disputes without resorting to aggression. Both victims are reportedly recovering from their injuries, while authorities urge calm as legal proceedings take their course.
