Cops confirm probing caning PM's effigy act at rally
The police have confirmed investigations into an incident during the “Turun Anwar” rally last Saturday, where several individuals were seen caning an effigy resembling Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Inspector-General of Police Khalid Ismail said the incident, which was captured on video and circulated on social media...
The police have confirmed investigations into an incident during the “Turun Anwar” rally last Saturday, where several individuals were seen caning an effigy resembling Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Inspector-General of Police Khalid Ismail said the incident, which was captured on video and circulated on social media, is being investigated under several laws.
“The case is being investigated under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act, Section 504 of the Penal Code, Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, and Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955,” he said in a statement today.
Khalid said two men, aged 21 and 47, were arrested today in connection with the incident.
“Communication devices believed to have been used to upload and disseminate related content were also seized.
“A remand application will be made for both individuals,” he added.
Khalid refrained from revealing the identities of the two individuals, pending an official charge.
‘Use social media responsibly’
However, lawyer Rafique Rashid Ali earlier today confirmed that Bersatu division chief Badrul Hisham Shaharin has been arrested, allegedly in connection with the incident.
Rafique had condemned the arrest, claiming that it was unnecessary as Badrul had already set an appointment to meet the police investigator in charge of his case at Bukit Aman tomorrow, after a report was lodged against him.
In his statement, Khalid advised the public to use social media responsibly and warned against exploiting the platforms to incite unrest.
“Firm and uncompromising action will be taken against anyone who deliberately threatens public peace and safety,” he stressed.
Acting Kuala Lumpur police chief Usuf Jan Mohamad previously confirmed receiving four reports in connection with the rally, including on the effigy caning act.
The remaining three reports were reportedly related to the use of drones.
