Cops probe Puad for sedition, defamation after 153 reports lodged

 The former MP is also being probed for statements conducive to public mischief, and improper use of network services.

In a social media post announcing his immediate resignation from Umno, Puad Zarkashi had alleged that the party’s Johor leadership lacked autonomy and was subject to external control.

PETALING JAYA:

Police have launched an investigation into former Johor state assembly speaker Puad Zarkashi over a statement he made on social media, with 153 reports lodged against him so far nationwide.

Johor police chief Ab Rahaman Arsad said that two police reports were received earlier today: one from a former Johor executive councillor and another from the political secretary to the Johor menteri besar.

He said Puad is being investigated under four provisions covering sedition, statements conducive to public mischief, defamation, and improper use of network services.

“Police expect the number to continue rising,” he said in a statement today.

Rahaman urged the public to respect the ongoing investigation and refrain from making comments or speculation that could cause public unrest.

“Firm action will be taken against any person found to have misused any network facilities or network application services for purposes that violate the law,” he said.

Earlier today, Puad announced his immediate resignation from Umno via social media, alleging that the party’s Johor leadership lacked autonomy in decision-making and was subject to external control.

Last week, he had said he would not defend the Rengit state seat in the Johor election on July 11, citing his age. The 69-year-old said that those aged 50 and below should be fielded instead. - FMT