KUALA LUMPUR: Get ready to be charged in court if the police catch you for spreading fake news on the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), warns Datuk Mazlan Mansor (pic).
"We have given advice and warnings not to spread such things that can create unrest – but it still happens.
"No more advice. We are going to charge these people straight away," said the Deputy Inspector-General of Police after officiating an awards ceremony for Ops Selamat 16 at Bukit Aman Wednesday (Feb 5).
He also said 13 investigations papers had been opened, with one suspect charged Wednesday and two more to be charged soon.
On Ops Selamat, the Mazlan said that there was a slight increase in fatalities compared to last year.
He said there were 216 fatal accidents, nine more than the 197 recorded last year. The number of deaths also increased from 216 to 230.
"Based on our analysis, it is clear that the negligent behaviour of drivers and motorists is still the biggest factor behind road accidents," he said.
On drunk driving, the Deputy IGP said that 205 drivers were apprehended in the same period.
He added that the police force supported the decision by the Cabinet to amend the laws related to drunk driving.
"It is appropriate that the punishment for those driving under the influence of alcohol should be greater and equal to their actions that endanger the lives of other road users," he said.
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