Report: Handcuffed theft suspect in Malaysia escapes by fleeing in police car

Handcuffed suspect flees in Malaysian police car

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — A report says a detained Malaysian car theft suspect has fled by driving off in a police cruiser while still in handcuffs.

The New Straits Times daily says the 33-year-old man sneaked into the police car and fled shortly after his arrest Sunday, while police officers were distracted with questioning another man in northern Kelantan state.

It said the car was found abandoned several hours later, but that the suspect escaped.

A local police officer declined to confirm any details of the case Monday, but said it was under investigation.