IPOH: A 29-year-old unemployed man has been arrested by police, believed to be involved in armed robberies at three convenience stores here.

       Ipoh OCPD Asst Comm Yahaya Hassan said the man, who was released from prison in March, was arrested at a house in Bandar Baru Putra in Bercham on April 16 at about 12.55am.

       ACP Yahaya said the police had also seized stolen items and a motorcycle believed to have been used by the man during the robberies.

       "The man is believed to have stolen about 46 packs of cigarettes and money worth about RM244.

       "He would be armed with a machete during his heist," ACP Yahaya said in a statement Sunday (April 17).

       "The arrest was made less than 30 hours after the first police report was lodged on April 14," he added.

       ACP Yahaya said the man would be remanded for five days until April 20 to facilitate investigations under Section 392/397 and Section 393 of the Penal Code.

       "With the arrest, we believe at least three cases have been solved," he said.

       ACP Yahaya advised the public to be vigilant to reduce opportunities for criminals to strike, especially during the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.

       "Traders too need to be careful of individuals who wear helmets while entering a business premises on the pretext of buying something but plan to rob the place.

       "Those with information of any crime can contact the district police's 24-hour control centre at 05-254 2222," he said.