A 15-second video of a man in green military-style uniform walking through a residential area while carrying a rifle spread rapidly on WhatsApp and social media, sending alarm through the Taman Bukit Desa community.
For residents who saw the footage, the sight of what appeared to be an armed soldier moving through their neighbourhood raised an unsettling question.
But is the man in the viral video really a soldier carrying a real firearm?
Verdict:
FALSE
Gombak district police chief Assistant Commissioner Ibrahim Husin said a report was received at 4.31pm on Monday after the video spread via WhatsApp.
"Following the report received, an investigation paper has been opened under Section 140 of the Penal Code and Section 36 of the Arms Act 1960," said Ibrahim, adding that the individual involved has yet to be identified.
The weapon seen in the video is believed to be a replica firearm, not a real one.
However, carrying even a replica firearm in public in a manner likely to cause public alarm is a criminal offence under Malaysian law, which is why investigations were opened under both the Penal Code and the Arms Act.
Ibrahim called on members of the public with information related to the incident to come forward and assist the investigation.
"Information can be channelled to the investigating officer, Inspector Prakash Sithambaram, at 012-2940827, or by contacting the Gombak district police headquarters operations room at 03-6126 2222 to assist in completing the investigation," he said.
Sources:
1. https://bernama.com/en/crime_courts/news.php?id=2571801
