MELAKA: The Home Ministry has ordered a swift and thorough investigation into possible elements of political opportunism behind an incident in Kampung Sungai Baru in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday (Sept 11), which left a senior police officer injured.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said while the government respects the people’s constitutional right to assemble, such freedom must come with responsibility and should not be misused for unlawful acts.
“I have spoken to the Inspector-General of Police to identify the perpetrators and take firm action within the ambit of the law,” he told reporters at the end of the 19th Asean Ministers’ Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC) and Related Meetings at a hotel in Taman Melaka Raya here on Thursday (September 11).
He also noted that police records showed that in the past three years, almost 98% of all notified gatherings had been facilitated by the authorities.
"This proves the government’s commitment to upholding the people’s freedom to assemble as guaranteed under the Constitution.
"At the same time, this right comes with responsibility, not just for the police, but also for organisers and participants,” he said.
Saifuddin condemned the act of violence during the enforcement operation, where Dang Wangi OCPD Asst Comm Sulizmie Affendy Sulaiman suffered a head injury believed to have been caused by a rock thrown by an unidentified individual.
The incident took place as authorities carried out a court-ordered operation to cut electricity supply and demolish several homes in the area.
Saifuddin said hurting a public servant is a serious offence and urged police to take immediate and firm action to bring the culprits to justice.
He also cautioned against those attempting to exploit the issue for political purposes.
"On the surface, they may appear to defend the people, but in reality, they incite hatred, spread false information and promote violence.
"Such actions can disrupt peace and cause unrest in society if not curbed,” he added.
