SIRENS and flashing lights always draw the attention of the crowd, especially if accompanied by raised voices and the sight of policemen in full riot gear.
Several videos of such an incident have gone viral including one alleging that there had been a shootout with four victims shot dead. Comments on some of the videos said that the incident happened at Penang International Airport.
Did such an incident occur there?
Verdict:
FALSE
Malaysia Airports Bhd (MAHB) reassured the public, saying that the chaotic scenes of rioters clashing with law enforcers was merely a drill.
In a statement, MAHB said it was part of a full-scale airport emergency exercise.
"Please be informed that Penang International Airport will be carrying out an Airport Contingency Plan exercise, codenamed Ex Gempar.
"Rest assured, all safety protocols will be followed to ensure normal operations.
"Should you observe any unusual activities or set-ups, kindly stay calm as they are part of the planned exercise," it said.
The full-day exercise from 9am to 4pm on Wednesday (Nov 20) saw three scenes unfolding at different parts of the airport, from airline staff going on strike to a bomb threat and an armed attack.
It tested the Aerodrome Emergency Plan (AEP), Airport Contingency Plan (ACP), and NSC Directive No 21, focusing on emergency response coordination, resource mobilisation, and public order threat management, apart from providing training on evacuation procedures and enhanced awareness of safety measures among personnel.
Communication, command, control efficiency, definition of roles and refinement of Tactical, Technical, and Procedural (TTP) practices were then identified and evaluated for improvement.
More than 250 personnel from various agencies were involved.
