We'll come down hard on agitators who use race and religion, says KL police chief

KUALA LUMPUR: Stern action will be taken without hesitation against those who make provocative statements on race and religion, says city police chief Comm Datuk Azmi Abu Kassim.

"We will not tolerate or compromise with such individuals.

"We hope the public will stand with us in preserving order and peace," he told reporters after attending the High Profile Policing programme at Esplanade Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre here on Sunday (March 19).

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He was commenting on a warning issued by the Inspector-General of Police that strict action without compromise awaits those issuing statements that touch on racial and religious sensitivities.

On Friday (March 17), Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani said the police were monitoring the situation closely and would not hesitate to act against threats to security and public order.

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"Rest assured that the current security level remains controlled and we are committed to ensuring continuous law enforcement.

"This is to ensure that the safety of (everyone) is guaranteed," he said.

On Friday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he had directed security forces to be on guard against extremists who tried to stir the flames of hatred using race and religion.

"Certain people who are desperate or feel challenged will use these sentiments," he was quoted as saying.