Police open 4 probes into Negeri Sembilan poll offences

 Two of the investigations involve alleged damage to property, including a case of suspected arson.

Negeri Sembilan police chief Alzafny Ahmad said police have received seven reports and opened four investigation papers linked to election offences since campaigning began on July 18.

PETALING JAYA:

Police have opened four investigation papers into alleged election offences since campaigning for the Negeri Sembilan polls began on July 18, including two on Monday involving alleged damage to property.

State police chief Alzafny Ahmad said in a statement that police received seven reports related to election offences over the last three days, with four lodged on July 20.

Of the four reports received yesterday, he said two investigation papers were opened: one under Section 427 of the Penal Code for mischief causing loss or damage to property and the other under Section 435 for mischief by fire causing loss or damage to property.

No details were provided on the other two investigation papers opened between July 18 and July 19.

On campaign logistics, Alzafny said police received 143 permit applications between July 18 and July 20, with 141 approved.

He said 34 permit applications for ceramahs and political activities were received on July 20, all of which were approved.

“All political programmes held will be monitored by the police to ensure compliance with the law and that they do not compromise public safety and order.

“Any violation of the law will be dealt with firmly, fairly and with integrity, without compromise,” he said, urging the public to respect the democratic process and cooperate with police on the ground.

Negeri Sembilan goes to the polls on Aug 1, with early voting set for July 28. A total of 889,490 voters are eligible to cast their ballots in the election for all 36 state seats. - FMT