Suspect in Nilai explosion has expert knowledge in making explosives: Cops

The Negeri Sembilan police chief, Datuk Alzafny Ahmad, revealed the face of the suspect wanted in connection with the explosion in the Desa Palma area during a press conference at the Negeri Sembilan Police Headquarters today. - Bernama pic, December 26, 2025


Suspect in Nilai explosion has expert knowledge in making explosives: Cops


Police believe Yeoh Hock Sun, 62, had been preparing the devices for months, with the explosives designed to cause widespread destruction



A. Azim Idris
Updated 6 seconds ago
26 December, 2025
5:29 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR — The individual involved in the explosion at Desa Palma in Nilai on December 22 is believed to possess significant technical expertise in the production of explosives, according to local authorities.

Negeri Sembilan police chief, Datuk Alzafny Ahmad, revealed that the discovery of various explosive devices and related equipment at a rented property led investigators to believe the suspect, 62-year-old Yeoh Hock Sun, had extensive knowledge in explosives.

Items seized included flammable cleaning agents, carbon, and sulphur, which are key components in the manufacture of such devices.

“Investigations suggest the suspect has a background in chemistry, having worked in a pharmaceutical factory for three years, as well as experience in information technology (IT),” Alzafny said at a press conference today.

“The explosives found were highly sophisticated, with well-prepared materials and devices, including timers and sensors, suggesting that the preparations had been ongoing for at least six months.”

The police chief further classified Yeoh as a highly dangerous individual due to his direct involvement in the explosive preparations, coupled with a criminal history under Section 506 of the Penal Code, which relates to criminal intimidation.

During a search of Yeoh’s residence, believed to have been used as a makeshift lab, authorities uncovered 31 more improvised explosive devices (IEDs), all of which were safely destroyed by the police.

Alzafny also provided details on the destructive capacity of the explosives, noting that the devices had an explosion radius of up to 20 metres, with fragments capable of reaching 30 metres. “The devices contained nails and shredded folding knives, which indicates the suspect had the knowledge to create a highly effective explosive,” he explained.

Describing the suspect as particularly dangerous, Alzafny noted that Yeoh would wear a face mask, hat, and a wig to conceal his identity when in public. Further investigation revealed that he had a history of aggressive behaviour, had been estranged from his family for over 30 years, and had previously been involved in violent incidents.

At present, 14 witnesses have been questioned, and CCTV footage from the area surrounding the explosion site has been obtained for further analysis.

Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that might assist in locating Yeoh, especially from medical centres, clinics, or pharmacies where he may have sought treatment or purchased medication.

“The suspect is believed to have sustained significant injuries in the explosion and is likely hiding,” Alzafny added.

“He is not connected to any terrorist groups or gangs and was travelling alone at the time of the incident.”

Last Monday, Alzafny had confirmed that police had found a suspected IED at the site of the explosion in Desa Palma, following reports of scattered nails and an explosive object in the vicinity at 7.08 am. — December 26, 2025