Foreign Affairs Ministry confirms robbery at Malaysian Ambassador to Chile's residence

The Foreign Affairs Ministry today confirmed the robbery incident that took place at the Malaysian Ambassador to Chile, Datuk Dr Mohamad Rameez Yahaya's residence.

In a statement released today, the ministry said Dr Mohamad Rameez's was broken into by assailants around late evening on June 12.

"Santiago police have launched investigations into the matter and have taken statements as well as gathered evidence pertinent to the investigation. -The Ministry views this attack on one of its envoys with the utmost concern.

"As front liners of Malaysia's presence aboard, the security of officers and staff members are of paramount importance.

"The ministry will be pursuing this matter with the relevant authorities in Chile until investigations conclude," it said in the statement.

It was reported that Dr Mohamad Rameezs home was reportedly robbed by a group of five criminals who broke into his home in Las Flores Avenue, Las Condes, Chile.

According to Spanish-language portal Biobiochile.cl, five individuals believed to be locals entered the house and tied the hands of the ambassador, his wife and their five children.

"They hit my head and tied my hands. They even threatened to cut off my wifes ear," Dr Mohamad Rameez told reporters a press conference a few hours after the incident.

"They took all the jewellery of my children and asked for a sum of money. If I refused, they said they would kill my children," he added.

The robbers also took his wife's jewelry. He said that his family members are traumatised by the incident but he is thankful that every one is safe. Meanwhile, Chilean authorities are investigating the incident, including taking fingerprints and examining closed-circuit camera (CCTV) at the condominium.