Saifuddin: Eight arrested for possible threat to country’s safety and public order
KUALA LUMPUR: Last weekend’s arrests of eight suspected Islamic State militants came about due to intelligence gathered by the Bukit Aman Special Branch Counter Terrorism Division (E8), says Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
He said the move was made under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act as there was a possibility of the suspects being a threat to safety and public order.
“The arrests of these eight people, including two women, were made in the context of prevention.
“Evidence gathered was based on actionable intelligence and the investigation process conducted by officers from the E8.
“Their investigation showed there was a spread of IS ideology that could threaten the country,” he said after attending the closing ceremony of the Retired Senior Police Officers Association of Malaysia (Respa) annual general meeting yesterday.
Saifuddin said the government viewed IS seriously as its teachings and objectives would endanger the country.
The police, he said managed to thwart the plans of the suspected IS militants who wanted to target VVIPs and senior police officers.
Media reports said the suspects – six men and two women aged between 25 and 70 – were nabbed in Johor, Kelantan, Perak and Selangor.
On Respa, Saifuddin said the ministry would forge closer ties with retired policemen and tap on their vast experiences.
This is especially so in tackling current security issues, he said.
“Their views can also be sought such as in drafting of a Bill to ensure the welfare of retired and former police, as well as in the formation of the Independent Police Conduct Commission,” he said.
Respa president Datuk Meor Chek Hussien Mahayuddin said the association has about 2,300 members nationwide.
“Our main focus is to assist our members,” he said.
“We also aim to provide valuable input to the government and the current police leadership for the benefit of the country,” he added.
He said the rights of retired policemen should not be forgotten, given their sacrifices for the country.
“We hope more benefits and aid could be channelled towards retired police personnel,” he said.
