Scuba Diving Incident in Sabah Turns Violent: Local Instructor Arrested After Assaulting Tourist

A local scuba diving instructor has been arrested following an alleged assault and threats made against a Taiwanese tourist during a diving trip off the coast of Timba-Timba Island, Sabah. The incident, which has gained widespread attention after a video circulated online, reportedly began with a minor equipment accident and escalated into a physical confrontation.

According to police, the incident unfolded on Tuesday, July 22, when both the 38-year-old instructor and the 34-year-old tourist were aboard a boat en route to the popular dive site. During the journey, the tourist’s scuba tank accidentally toppled and landed on the instructor’s foot, triggering an argument between the two men.

Following the encounter, the instructor sought treatment for his injury at Tawau Hospital. However, the situation worsened the next day when he returned to the tour company’s premises to confront the tourist and demand financial compensation. A second dispute broke out, during which the instructor allegedly assaulted the tourist and issued verbal threats.

A video that surfaced on social media shows the instructor slapping the tourist while engaging in a heated exchange with both the man and a woman believed to be his companion. The trio can be heard speaking in Mandarin, and the tourist is seen asking, “Have you called the police?” as the situation escalates.

Acting Semporna District Police Chief Deputy Superintendent Jaafar Hakim confirmed the arrest of the suspect, who is currently under investigation for voluntarily causing hurt and criminal intimidation under Sections 323 and 506 of the Penal Code.

Authorities have urged anyone who witnessed the incident or has further information to come forward. Members of the public can contact Investigating Officer Sergeant Nurfazlina Abdullah at +60 19-801 1009, the Semporna District Police Headquarters at +60 89-782 020, or visit the nearest police station.

Further investigations are ongoing.