JOHOR BARU: Two 15-year-old boys were caught red-handed in the early hours of today, allegedly pushing a motorcycle that was reported stolen on July 5.

The duo allegedly also confessed that they were behind a recent break-in at a religious school.

The boys, one still in school and the other a dropout with a past record for motorcycle theft, were detained by police.

The policemen were on routine patrol under Op Lejang at 1am at Persiaran Southkey.

Johor Baru (South) police chief Assistant Commissioner Raub Selamat said cops spotted the teens acting suspiciously while pushing the motorcycle, which was reported stolen from a housing flats complex on July 5.

"Checks revealed the motorcycle's ignition had been tampered with. The boys are believed to have hidden the motorcycle in a nearby bush before attempting to move it, when they were caught red-handed," Raub said today.

"They also confessed to a break-in at a religious school on June 23. Initial urine tests came back negative for drugs," Raub added.

The suspects were remanded for three days until July 10 to assist in investigations under Section 379A of the Penal Code for theft, which carries up to seven years' jail and a fine, and house trespass, which provides for up to three years' jail or a RM5,000 fine, or both.

Raub said police took a firm stance against juvenile crime, warning that early criminal involvement often leads to more serious issues if left unchecked.

"We urge parents and guardians to stay alert to their children's activities and peer circles," he added.

He also reminded the public to enhance vehicle security with additional locks and to report any suspicious activity.

Anyone with information related to crimes in the area may contact the Johor Baru (South) police hotline at 07-2218999.

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