Viral video shows man beaten after being trapped in apartment; suspects aged 19 to 26 arrested
A 21-year-old factory worker from Kluang was allegedly lured through social media and viciously assaulted at an apartment in Plentong Baru, Johor. The police have arrested eight individuals, including a woman, following the circulation of a viral video of the attack.
Social Media Trap Turns Violent
The victim had reportedly travelled more than 100km to meet a woman he had connected with via a social media app. Upon arriving at the rented apartment unit in Plentong Baru, near Masai, on April 18 at around 9:30pm, he was allegedly confined before violently assaulted by several men.
A two-minute video that has since gone viral shows the man being punched and kicked repeatedly by a group of individuals. According to the police, he suffered injuries to his lips and left ear, along with bruises across his body. The disturbing footage prompted widespread concern and led to a police investigation.
Eight Suspects Arrested
Seri Alam police chief Assistant Commissioner Mohd Sohaimi Ishak confirmed that eight suspects—seven men and one woman aged 19 to 26—were arrested at around 2:30am the following day. Preliminary checks revealed that five of them have prior criminal records, including prior drug-related offences.
Drug Involvement and Criminal Records
Urine tests indicated that four suspects tested positive for methamphetamine. The suspects are now being investigated under several provisions, including Section 324 of the Penal Code for voluntarily causing hurt with dangerous weapons, Section 342 for wrongful confinement, and Section 385 for extortion-related injuries.
Multiple Charges Underway
Authorities have also initiated investigations under Section 15(1)(a) of Malaysia’s Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, which addresses drug consumption offences. All suspects are currently remanded until April 26 as investigations continue.
Victim Files Police Report
The victim, who managed to escape and file a report the next day, said he was misled into believing the meeting would be harmless. The betrayal and violence have raised fresh concerns over online scams and predatory setups using dating or messaging platforms.
Police are urging anyone with additional information on the case to contact investigating officer G. Devandran at +60 14-667 6431 or the Seri Alam police headquarters at +60 7-386 4222. The case remains under active investigation, with more leads being pursued.
This incident sheds light on the dangers of trusting online acquaintances and reinforces the need for public vigilance, especially among young adults navigating digital social spaces. The case also highlights the importance of swift law enforcement action and public cooperation in combating group violence and cyber-luring crimes.
Sources: Free Malaysia Today (2025), The Star (2025), Malay Mail (2025)
Keywords: Johor Factory Worker, Social Media Luring, Viral Assault Video, Plentong Baru Attack, Police Arrests
