MELAKA: Police have submitted 32 investigation papers related to the 16th Melaka State Election to the Attorney General's Chambers (AGC) and are now awaiting further instructions.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail said 42 police reports were received during the 14-day campaign period, on issues including the tearing down and burning of flags, as well as speeches by several individuals alleged to have contained seditious elements.
"We have opened 32 investigation papers. I believe and am confident that the police will conduct the best possible investigation professionally, without bias towards any side or party," he said at a press conference at Sekolah Kebangsaan Tun Syed Ahmad Shahabudin in Ayer Keroh here on Saturday (Nov 14).
Asked about a campaign speech by an influential individual from a political party, Mohd Khalid said police had completed the investigation paper on the matter and submitted it to the AGC.
"We investigated under Sections 505 and 298 of the Penal Code. The individual concerned will also be called to have his statement recorded," he said.
Regarding security on polling day, Mohd Khalid said the situation in the state remained under control as of Saturday afternoon, with no incidents of concern throughout the process.
He said about 3,300 police officers and personnel have been deployed to maintain security and public order during the state election, comprising about 1,500 personnel from Melaka and another 1,800 from other states.
He said the deployment covered security control at polling centres and channels as well as public places, along with traffic management in cooperation with various agencies and ministries.
Mohd Khalid said that once polling closes at 6pm, police will secure vote-tallying centres, which are expected to draw crowds of supporters.
"I hope there will be no processions to celebrate victories and so on. Everyone must observe proper conduct and uphold the law to ensure everything runs well and smoothly," he said.
The 16th Melaka State Election involves 28 state assembly seats. — Bernama
