SOMETIMES all it takes is a single post on a WhatsApp group to cause widespread alarm. While the intention may be noble, spreading inaccurate information may do more harm than good by spreading unfounded fear.
Recently, residents in Bangi shared warning messages that some inmates escaped from a drug rehabilitation centre and were spotted in the area.
Did this actually happen?
Verdict:
FALSE
National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh (pic) said the four inmates had indeed escaped from the Perlop Drug Rehabilitation Centre (Puspen) in Perak but they did not venture as far as Bangi.
He said four inmates escaped on Friday (July 24) but were recaptured in the Sungai Siput district with the assistance of police and local villagers.
"Following the incident, messages began circulating claiming that the escapees were in the Bandar Baru Bangi area and posed a threat to the public, causing unnecessary concern among residents," said Ruslin in a statement on Thursday (July 30).
Ruslin said the viral messages were false.
"AADK is conducting a comprehensive internal investigation to determine the cause of the incident, including whether there was any negligence or non-compliance with standard operating procedures," said Ruslin.
He added that disciplinary and legal action would be taken if the investigation found any negligence on the part of staff.
Meanwhile, Ruslin urged the public not to spread unverified information that could cause unnecessary public alarm.
"Legal action may be taken against anyone found spreading false information under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and other relevant laws currently in force," said Ruslin.
