GIVEN how peaceful Malaysia is, any news of a terrorist attack can spread like wildfire due to the panic and fear such information can cause regardless as to whether it is true or not.
But what if the alarm is simply an exercise?
Recently, it was claimed that such an attack took place at Politeknik Ungku Omar in Ipoh.
Is it true that such an attack took place at the polytechnic?
VERDICT:
FALSE
The public has been urged to remain calm over reports of a "terrorist attack" at Politeknik Ungku Omar, as Ipoh OCPD Asst Comm Abang Zainal Abidin Abang Ahmad said it was actually an exercise named "Ex Kurung."
He said the exercise is aimed at testing the effectiveness of a terrorist crisis management action plan to ensure public safety and order.
ACP Abang Zainal said the exercise took place at the polytechnic on Monday (March 17) at about 9.05am and in the scenario, armed terrorists took a lecturer and several students hostage.
The small-scale exercise tested the preparedness of the police, the polytechnic, and Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital in managing a terrorist crisis.
The exercise also involved several vehicles at the premises, including a helicopter from the General Operations Force.
Authorities urged people to remain calm and not make inaccurate speculations about the exercise.
Earlier, social media buzzed with talks of gunshots at the polytechnic, leading to speculation.
