42 reports lodged, two IPs opened over socks issue, says CID chief

KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 42 police reports have been lodged in connection with the sale of socks with the word "Allah" printed on them, says CID director Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain.

He said two investigation papers (IPs) have been opened in connection with the case.

"Officers from the department's Special Investigation Unit and Legal Division are on the case.

"It has been classified under Section 298A of the Penal Code for causing disharmony, disunity, or feelings of enmity, hatred or ill-will, or prejudicing the maintenance of harmony or unity, on grounds of religion.

"We are also investigating under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for misusing network facilities," he said in a statement on Monday (March 18).

ALSO READ: Probe of socks issue will go on despite store's apology, Dewan Rakyat told (https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/03/18/probe-of-socks-issue-will-go-on-despite-store039s-apology-dewan-rakyat-told)

Comm Mohd Shuhaily reminded the public not to speculate on the case as it is still under investigation.

"We also hope the people are aware and concerned about sensitive issues, especially those that could cause public distress and involve national security," he said.

It was previously reported that the police probe against convenience store chain KK Super Mart will go on despite the public apology for its oversight in selling the socks.

Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Shamsul Anuar Nasarah told the Dewan Rakyat earlier on Monday that the probe will be initiated against the convenience store distributor and vendors involved in the matter for inciting public outrage and uproar.

On Saturday (March 16) night, Umno Youth demanded that banners of apology be placed at all 881 KK Super Mart outlets nationwide.

The movement's chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh said they would resort to more “drastic” action if such an apology was not forthcoming within 48 hours.