Brutal Assault in Sabah: Husband Allegedly Slashes Wife 14 Times Following Chat with Male Neighbor

TAWAU, SABAH — A horrific act of domestic violence has stunned a local community after a mother of six was left fighting for her life following a brutal assault allegedly perpetrated by her husband. The attack, driven by intense jealousy, occurred late Thursday evening at the couple’s residence in the state of Sabah.

The victim survived the encounter but sustained catastrophic injuries after being slashed at least 14 times with a heavy blade.

According to preliminary local police reports, the altercation erupted shortly after the husband arrived home and discovered his wife engaged in a casual conversation with a male neighbor outside their home. Witnesses reported hearing a heated verbal argument inside the residence soon after, which quickly escalated into physical violence.

In a fit of rage, the suspect allegedly grabbed a large kitchen knife and attacked the woman repeatedly in front of several of their children. Emergency responders confirmed the victim suffered extensive injuries, including deep lacerations across her arms, shoulders, and upper body as she desperately tried to shield herself from the blows.

In a miracle survival, neighbors rushed to the home after hearing the children’s screams, managing to intervene and immediately notify local authorities before the mother was rushed to the regional hospital in critical condition to undergo emergency surgery.

Local district police confirmed that the husband was arrested at the scene without further incident. The weapon used in the assault has been recovered as evidence.

"Initial investigations point strictly to a motive of extreme jealousy regarding a misunderstanding over a neighborly interaction," a police spokesperson stated during a brief update. "We are investigating the matter under Section 326 of the Penal Code for causing grievous hurt with a dangerous weapon, which carries severe prison penalties."

As the victim remains in stable but serious condition under close medical supervision, the brutal nature of the crime has sparked widespread outrage across Sabah.

Local women's rights groups and community leaders have quickly mobilized to provide emergency child care and psychological support for the couple’s six children, who are deeply traumatized after witnessing the assault. Social workers are working alongside extended family members to ensure the children are safe while their mother begins what is expected to be a long and challenging physical and emotional recovery.