IGP: Stop the spread of fake news


KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians are told to sieve through information about the coronavirus outbreak as there are just too many “experts” online spreading news about the issue without checking, said the country’s top cop Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador.

He also called on social media users to stop stoking fear by spreading fake news about the outbreak.

“Spreading fake news and scaring people is not beneficial to anyone, ” he told a press conference after launching the Bukit Aman Narcotic Crimes Investigation Department (NCID) corporate video and official theme song yesterday.

“Spread fake news and be prepared to face the full brunt of the law.

“We are currently investigating four people in connection with spreading fake news, ” he said without elaborating.

On the virus front, the IGP said the police will provide assistance to the Health Ministry and relevant authorities to prevent the spread of the virus.

“I have ordered my men to give their full assistance if and when a request is made.

“We are ever ready to assist in any manner, ” he said.

Abdul Hamid advised the public not to panic and always check any information or news.

“Spreading unverified news can have dire consequences, ” he said.

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coronavirus , outbreak , Wuhan , pneumonia , fake news , IGP

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