Four individuals who made statements that sparked provocative debates on religious and racial issues will be charged at separate courts in various locations tomorrow morning, said Inspector-General of Police Khalid Ismail.
The cases involve controversial preacher Zamri Vinoth at the Kuala Lumpur Magistrate’s Court, activist Tamim Dahri Abdul Razak at the Langkawi Magistrate’s Court in Kedah, P Mahendra Bhoopaty at the Seremban Magistrate’s Court in Negeri Sembilan, and activist D Arumugam, also known as Arun Dorasamy, at the Jawi Magistrate’s Court in Penang.
Speaking at a press conference here today, Khalid confirmed that investigations into the four individuals have been completed, with the investigation papers separately referred to the Attorney-General’s Chambers and the state public prosecutors in accordance with Article 145(3) of the Federal Constitution.
The IGP said investigations into Zamri relate to his statements regarding the organisation of an anti-illegal Hindu temple gathering at the Sogo Complex in the capital on Feb 7.
He stated that the charge against Zamri will be filed under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code for statements conducing to public mischief with the intent to cause, or which may cause, fear or alarm to the public.
Investigations into Tamim, meanwhile, concern his actions in damaging the “soolam”, a sacred symbol of the Hindu faith at the old Sri Maha Muniswarar Temple site in Langkawi, Kedah.
He will be charged under Section 295 of the Penal Code for damaging or desecrating any object held sacred by any class of persons with the intent to outrage religious feelings.
Mahendra and Arun face similar charges under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code.
The investigation into Mahendra concerns a post accusing Masjid Jamek Datuk Bandar Haji Ahmad Rasah in Seremban of being an illegal mosque, while Arun’s investigation relates to his statement urging the Persatuan Hindu Agama Ani Malaysia to stage street protests if no action is taken against Zamri.
Tamim may be in Thailand
Meanwhile, Khalid said intelligence indicates that Tamim is believed to be in Thailand.
“We have intelligence that he has gone to a neighbouring country, namely Thailand. Beyond that, we are still uncertain of his exact location, and further information is being obtained,” he said.
Regarding Zamri, Khalid said the police have preliminary information on his movements and believe he may still be in the country.
“We had initial information that day (about Zamri), and I believe he may be in our country. So far, we have received good cooperation from the individual,” he explained.
Khalid also emphasised that the police will not compromise with any party involved in activities that could threaten public order and safety.
- Bernama
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