State polls: 94 cases of MyKad misuse on polling day, say cops

KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 94 cases of MyKad misuse were detected during the voting process for the recently-concluded state polls, says Tan Sri Razarudin Husain.

The Inspector-General of Police said it involved cases of identity cards being misused to cast votes, which is an offence under Section 7 of the Election Offences Act.

"Selangor recorded the highest number of incidents with 48 cases, followed by Penang (20), Terengganu (nine), Kedah (nine), Negri Sembilan (six) and Kelantan (two).

"We are investigating the matter thoroughly," he said in a statement on Sunday (Aug 13).

He said that in total, 181 reports were received, with the bulk involving the misuse of MyKad on polling day.

"Among the other offences recorded were the damaging of the flags of political parties, which is an offence under Section 427 of the Penal Code, and showing party logos in the vicinity of polling centres. We also recorded cases of criminal intimidation and illegal assembly," he said.

Meanwhile, Razarudin said a total of 1,951 police reports were lodged throughout the elections.

"The majority of the reports were of damage to the flags, banners and posters of political parties.

Selangor recorded the highest number of reports with 782, followed by Terengganu (390), Kedah (293), Kelantan (265), Negri Sembilan (135) and Penang (86)," he said.

Razarudin added that during the elections, 15 individuals were detained for various offences.

"We also opened 240 investigation papers," he added.

The country's top cop said a total of 4,506 ceramah with permits were held throughout the elections while two were held without permits.

"Despite the number of police reports lodged, the nomination day up to the polling day went on without any major incident. Political maturity among the candidates and supporters was vital in avoiding trouble during the elections," he said.

Razarudin also commended the exceptional duty shown by the men and women of the police force before, during and after the elections.

"All personnel and officers on the ground have done their best during the elections. The priority is always to ensure the safety and security of the people and maintain public order," he said.