What led to the mistaken identity of Penang visitors as kidnappers?

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A Misunderstanding Over Durian Directions Led to False Kidnapping Accusations

A couple visiting Penang faced mistaken identity as child abductors on social media due to a misunderstanding when they stopped a 10-year-old girl to ask for directions to a durian farm. The situation escalated when the girl's father, who was following, perceived the interaction as a potential abduction attempt and subsequently filed a police report. Investigations by the South-west district police have since concluded, confirming the incident as a case of mistaken identity.
Seeking a Specific Durian Variety

The couple, in their 40s, were reportedly lost and actively searching for a particular type of durian known as the "khunpoh." This unique hybrid durian is one of Penang's famed offerings, and their pursuit of it led them to stop along Jalan Pantai Acheh in Balik Pulau. Their intention was solely to gather information about the location of a durian farm specializing in this fruit.
The Interaction with a Child

The interaction that triggered the misunderstanding occurred when the couple stopped a 10-year-old girl who was cycling to an Islamic religious school. They approached her to inquire about directions to a "khunpoh" durian farm. According to their statements, the girl appeared confused and did not know the way, prompting the couple to drive away without further incident.
A Father's Concern and Police Involvement

The girl's father, a fisherman, was following his daughter at a distance and observed the car stopping beside her. Fearing for his daughter's safety and suspecting a kidnapping attempt, he attempted to stop the vehicle. When he was unable to catch up, he proceeded to the Air Itam police station to file a report, providing the car's plate numbers and requesting an investigation.
Clarification and Case Closure

Upon learning of the accusations circulating on social media, including images of their car being shared widely, the couple promptly went to the police station to lodge their own report. They explained their actions, providing consistent statements that corroborated their story of merely seeking directions to a durian farm. Police investigations confirmed the couple had no prior criminal records, leading to the closure of the case and clarification of the misunderstanding.

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What led to the mistaken identity of Penang visitors as kidnappers?

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