PETALING JAYA: Police have disallowed a planned rally by the Gerakan Anti Rumah Anutan Haram (Garah) scheduled for Saturday (Feb 7) at the Sogo shopping complex here, citing concerns over public safety and security.
Kuala Lumpur police chief Comm Datuk Fadil Marsus said police received a notification letter on Feb 3 from the rally’s coordinator, informing authorities of plans to hold a peaceful assembly at 8pm.
“Following the notification, police conducted security assessments and obtained feedback from all relevant parties, including owners of premises around the proposed location,” he said in a statement.
He added that the Dang Wangi district police chief also held discussions with the organisers on Feb 5.
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However, Comm Fadil said police later received written objections on Feb 6 from the owners of Sogo Shopping Complex, Pertama Complex, Harissons and several nearby premises, who raised concerns about customer safety during the proposed rally.
“Police also received intelligence indicating the potential for a breach of peace and security threats to the public, especially as the area is expected to be crowded due to ongoing festive celebrations,” he said.
Based on security considerations and intelligence gathered, Comm Fadil said police determined that the assembly could pose a risk to public safety and therefore decided not to allow it to proceed.
He advised the public not to attend the rally and warned that firm action would be taken against any party attempting to cause disorder or disrupt public security.
“Police will ensure that public safety and well-being remain the top priority,” he said.
