IPOH: Dissatisfied with the registration counter service at the Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital here today, an ex-serviceman reportedly smashed the counter's glass screen by punching it with his fist.

Ipoh district police deputy chief, Supt Anuar Osman said in the 11am incident, the man had brought his Indonesian wife to the hospital and as she required further treatment, he was asked to pay RM800 but he had only RM200 with him.

"When the counter staff declined to accept RM150 from him as deposit for the treatment, he probably became angry and smashed the counter's glass screen with a punch," he said, adding that the staff fled out of fear while several outpatients and visitors present were shocked.

Anuar said police had received a report from the staff and were looking for the man. The case is being investigated under Section 427 of the Penal Code for committing mischief and causing damage.

- Bernama