Inspector-General of Police Abdul Hamid Bador has denied a viral message that police are planning to detain people who are outside without valid reason.
"Not true!" the top cop told Malaysiakini.
The viral message claims that a new "press release" from police states that those who are outside without a valid reason "can be detained under the Act for Infectious Diseases".
The message also falsely claims that those who are not wearing masks during roadblocks will be fined RM200 immediately.
The government and police are heavily encouraging people to stay at home during the movement control order period which ends on March 31.
This is to prevent the spread of Covid-19 cases during the virus' incubation period.
Earlier, Hamid (photo) had told the press that he did not want the police to resort to drastic measures.
"I hope people will understand. Don't let it get to a dangerous point where measures will be more drastic.
"I don't want the police to make arrests, so don't let it get to that point... avoid unnecessary travel," he was quoted as saying by Bernama TV while inspecting roadblocks in Kuala Lumpur.
Police have set up roadblocks since yesterday to advise people to comply with the movement control order.
"For now, we will advise those who are outside to only go out when necessary or for emergencies," Selangor CID chief Fadzil Ahmat was quoted as saying by The Star last night.
He said this includes advising people not to go out in groups when buying food and necessities.
Meanwhile, police are also patrolling the streets to encourage people to stay home and avoid social gatherings.
Defence Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob also said the military may be roped in if Malaysians still refuse to comply with the movement control order.
But for now, Ismail said he believes in the police's capability to improve the compliance rate and, if things improve, the army need not be deployed. -Mkini
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