Law (right) and Fauzilan fielding questions from reporters at Lawas Police Station yesterday
LAWAS: Police are keeping close tabs on all broadcasts, reports, messages and rumours concerning the murder of 19-year-old Edwin Singa here last Friday as seditious content could jeopardise public order.
State Deputy Police Commissioner Dato Law Hung Soon cautioned that anyone with ill intent could be hauled up under Section 506 of the Penal Code which provides for a penalty not exceeding two years imprisonment or fine, or both upon conviction.
“We have received information on many SMS, blogs and word of mouth which are inaccurate speculations that could jeopardise public order. All these must stop as this is an offence,” Law said when met by reporters at Lawas Police Station yesterday.
Also present were OCPD Lawas DSP Fauzilan Abdul Aziz.
Law said that while action had yet to be taken against those involved, investigations were under way and those found flouting the law would be charged, including under the Multimedia Act for those spreading falsehoods and seditious materials.
When asked for updates on the murder investigation, he said investigation papers would be forwarded to the Attorney-General’s Office for a decision once the probe was completed.
“I am happy with the investigation process.”
Meanwhile, Fauzilan declined to comment on the suspects that had been arrested thus far, saying his men was still tracking down more suspects.
The peaceful atmosphere in Lawas was shattered last weekend after speculations and rumours spread like wildfire through the social media and SMSes. The picture painted was that there was racial tension in Lawas following the murder of Edwin.
On Tuesday, a group staged a demonstration and later handed over a memorandum to Lawas police calling for justice and fair investigation into the tragic case.
Law said he was happy with the peace prevailing here. He said the situation was a far cry from the chaotic picture painted in the social media.
“We can see that it is business as usual and the people are getting on with their lives as usual. If there are any problems, the people could also call the OCPD here directly.”
Law said it was important that in a multi-racial society everyone is able to enjoy peace. He added that the law is there for people to seek legal redress while the police would safeguard security and peace for everyone, irrespective of their backgrounds.
Meanwhile, Lawas District Officer Mohd Supaih Hamdan has called upon all communities here to pray for solidarity, peace, and security.
He said the unfortunate incident in Lawas represented a test of the spirit of solidarity of the society in Lawas district, and hoped it would continue to prevail to enable them to move forward towards their common goals and aspirations.
Supaih slammed the acts of certain individuals who exploited the situation to incite racial tension.
“We should be thinking about the future of our succeeding generations, and inculcating virtuous and religious values in them as the foundation of living in peace and harmony.” - BORNEO POST
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