Along with being known as the "Historic City" due to its rich history and architecture, Melaka is also known, to a lesser extent, as a sleepy hollow due to its quiet, relaxed vibes.
However, motorists near the Stadium Hang Jebat recently were given a "rude awakening" when an armed hostage situation apparently unfolded in the middle of the road.
A video of the incident has gone viral. Was this a real armed incident?
VERDICT:
FALSE
Melaka Tengah OCPD Asst Comm Christopher Patit said police were aware of a 45-second video circulating on WhatsApp showing armed personnel and convoy movements outside the stadium.
He clarified that the episode was in fact a scheduled simulation held at about 6.30pm on Tuesday (November 18), involving a mock operation to rescue a VIP held hostage.
"The entire situation seen in the video was part of a controlled training exercise that simulated a VIP rescue operation.
“It involved negotiation efforts, tactical response and the use of training weapons and vehicles,” he said on Wednesday (Nov 19).
ACP Christopher Patit said the drill lasted around 45mins and was carried out safely and in a fully controlled manner.
He said the simulation formed part of an ongoing close-combat and VIP protection course conducted by the armed forces from Nov 10 to 22 across several locations within the Melaka Tengah district.
“The sessions include VIP escort movements, convoy coordination, threat-response drills and critical-incident simulations at key areas here such as Ayer Keroh, Stadium Hang Jebat, Bandar Hilir, Klebang, Simpang Ampat and Sungai Udang,” he said.
ACP Christopher Patit said throughout the training period, the public may notice convoys marked with green ribbons, as well as trainees and instructors carrying grey identification passes.
"Various training vehicles are being used, including several motorcycles while all participating personnel are equipped with standard training safety gear and blank ammunition for simulated engagements,” he said.
ACP Christopher Patit said the Melaka Tengah police headquarters will continue providing full cooperation to the organisers to ensure every activity proceeds safely without disrupting public order.
He reminded the public not to be alarmed by the movement of armed convoys or the sound of blank gunfire heard around designated training zones.
“We advise the community not to panic or be influenced by unverified information shared on social media regarding these training activities,” he added.
