Police said the firearm, locally known as a ‘bakakuk’, was found at a hut near the suspect’s home, covered with a zinc sheet. The teenager had earlier been found injured after he failed to return from the forest. He was taken to Lawas Hospital and was reported to be in stable condition.

Investigators said the teenager had gone hunting with a relative and was accidentally shot by a friend who mistook him for an animal. That is the account under investigation; the arrest is not a conviction, and police have not announced any court outcome. The case is being investigated under Section 307 of the Penal Code and Section 37 of the Arms Act 1960.

Police are still tracing witnesses and gathering information. Anyone with relevant knowledge should pass it to the police and avoid spreading speculation about the case.