Widow dies hours after attack

Widow dies hours after attack

A 60-year-old widow, who had just moved into the Rifle Range flats two weeks ago, died nine hours after she was injured in a snatch theft.

Tan Kim Chuan was walking alone by a road near Block J of the flats at around 6.02am when her handbag was snatched by a motorcyclist.

A CCTV camera installed at one of the blocks showed the lone motorcyclist suddenly grabbing Tan's handbag from behind, causing her to fall and knock her head against the floor.

The CCTV footage also revealed that 10 people walked past her but did nothing as she laid unconscious on the ground for seven minutes. A kind-hearted passer-by then alerted the police.

Although she was immediately rushed to Penang Hospital, Tan was pronounced dead at 3.45pm.

George Town OCPD Asst Comm Gan Kong Meng, who confirmed the death, said police had located her next-of-kin, a 31-year-old nephew.

ACP Gan said police had also obtained the CCTV recording from the Rifle Range Community Development and Security Committee to assist in their investigation.

“We are zeroing in on the suspect. Those with information can contact the nearest police station,” he said.