Security under control, says Bukit Aman

KUALA LUMPUR: After more than a week of campaigning, there have been no major incidents despite a large number of reports lodged nationwide, said Comm Datuk Seri Zulkifli Abdullah.

The Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department director said the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) have deployed personnel around the country, especially at hotspot areas.

“The security situation is under control. All police personnel and officers are ready for any eventuality,” he said in an interview.

Despite the huge number of police reports, Comm Zulkifli assured the public that nothing really serious or major occurred.

“We are committed to ensure that all Malaysians are able to exercise their democratic rights during the elections. The safety and security of all remains our priority,” he said.

More than 860 police reports have been lodged since campaigning for GE14 began, with the brunt of the cases reported involving sabotage of party posters and banners.

A total of 17 people were arrested, including one in Yong Peng for causing hurt and one in Sabah for impersonating a civil servant.

Kuala Lumpur police chief Comm Datuk Seri Mazlan Lazim said city police granted 198 permits for ceramah to be held, adding that 333 activities such as walkabouts and handing out flyers were also carried out.

Comm Mazlan said police are investigating a report lodged by DAP publicity unit employee Amran Mohd Nor, who claimed that his party is playing up malicious propaganda that could divide the Malay community and affect the nation’s harmony.

Comm Mazlan had confirmed that Pakatan Harapan chairman Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is under investigation for allegedly spreading fake news, after a report was lodged against him over claims that his chartered plane was sabotaged.

The report was lodged by Umno Grassroots Movement, whose chairman Datuk Zulkarnain Mahdar said the allegations led to anxiety among Malaysians about the level of public safety.