Penang police chief Comm Datuk Hamzah Ahmad said the man had since been remanded until Wednesday pending an investigation.

He said police would investigate the man for using criminal force to prevent a public servant from performing his duties, for criminal intimidation, and for an offence under Section 90 of the Police Act 1967 due to his disorderly conduct at the police station, which included insulting police personnel.

He added that the man had four records – two criminal-related and two drug-related.

Comm Hamzah said the man had earlier told the police to open the gate at the police station compound while uttering profanities during the 4am incident yesterday.

“The police officer gave him a warning and advised him to leave the place.

“But he refused to listen and instead moved towards the policeman and tried to snatch the machine gun, the HK MP5, from him.

“The suspect later took a helmet and tried to attack him but was instead hurt in the scuffle before he was overpowered,” said Comm Hamzah in a statement yesterday.