Financial difficulties can push people to the brink, sometimes leading to decisions that shock and baffle others.
Such was the case in Taiping, where a woman in her 40s resorted to setting her motorcycle on fire after a repossession attempt by the bank.
The incident, caught on camera, quickly went viral and left many questioning the consequences of her actions.
Agent arrived to recover the Honda RSX
The dramatic act unfolded when the bank’s repossession agent arrived to recover the Honda RSX due to overdue payments.
Refusing to cooperate, the woman poured petrol over the motorcycle and set it alight. Witnesses, including the agent who recorded the incident, were left stunned as flames engulfed the vehicle.
The Reason Behind the Outburst
As the video spread online, police provided clarity on the situation. According to authorities, the woman had failed to pay her motorcycle loan for 20 months.
Her inability to meet the terms of the hire purchase agreement had prompted the bank to take action, ultimately leading to the fiery confrontation.
She later arrested by the police
Later that evening, police arrested the woman, citing potential charges under Section 435 of the Penal Code for mischief by fire.
If found guilty, she could face up to 14 years in prison—a steep penalty for her decision to lash out in frustration.
The viral footage drew swift reactions from netizens, who were quick to criticise the woman’s actions.
Many pointed out that setting the motorcycle on fire not only worsened her financial troubles but also brought significant legal repercussions.
“That was such a foolish move. Other people might want to use the motorcycle, and even you need it. But instead of paying off the debt, you burned it just to avoid repayment. The debt still needs to be paid, and now you’ll face punishment and possibly end up in jail. Well, good luck burning… in prison next.”
“Sis, burning the motorcycle won’t settle your debt. In the end, you’re the one who loses. Your motorcycle is gone, you’re going to jail, and the debt still needs to be paid. Where’s your brain, sis? Where’s your brain?”
Taiping District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner Mohamad Nasir Ismail confirmed on Friday that the woman remains in custody as investigations continue.
