The police are investigating claims that International Trade and Industry Minister Azmin Ali and his family had flouted Covid-19 protocols during a gathering on May 13.
Putrajaya district police chief Mohd Fadzil Ali said investigations are being carried out under Section 269 of the Penal Code and Section 17 of the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases (Measures within Infected Local Areas) Regulations 2021.
Upon conviction, Section 269 carries a jail term of up to six months, a fine, or both.
"Preliminary investigations revealed that the incident occurred on May 13, at Azmin's residence in Putrajaya.
"Investigations revealed that photographs (from the gathering) showed that the minister's family were together for a video conferencing session with close family only.
"Statements from a witnessed stationed at the security post showed there were no visitors on that day as alleged by a Facebook user," said Fadzil.
He said the police will record statements from witnesses to assist in investigations before referring the matter to the public prosecutor's office.
He also urged social media users to be cautious when issuing statements or comments which can tarnish the image, credibility, or dignity of a person or government department.
Fadzil issued two statements on this issue today.
His earlier statement, which was retracted, said a police report was lodged concerning a Facebook post, ostensibly by Azmin's estranged younger sister Ummi Hafilda, complaining about the gathering and alleged breach of Covid-19 protocols.
The updated statement does not mention Ummi at all. She was mentioned twice in the original statement.
The earlier statement also claimed that preliminary investigations revealed those involved were only "kalangan ahli keluarga... yang mendiami kediaman tersebut" (family members... who reside in that residence).
The updated statement does not suggest this to be the case.
The previous statement was posted on the "Polis KL" Facebook page and was still accessible as of noon today.
On May 13, Azmin uploaded a series of photographs of his children and their spouses. One photo depicted them with his grandchildren.
Following this, netizens poured scorn on the Gombak MP, accusing him of allowing visitors, who likely had to cross district borders, despite the authorities banning house visits.
Movement control order (MCO) rules, which took effect on May 12, prohibited Hari Raya house visits to curb the spread of Covid-19.
Ummi, on her Facebook page, accused Azmin of being a beneficiary of double standards since his family could gather.
“People are angry. You came back (from the Middle East) without having to quarantine.
“Are you invincible? Did you get a shot of ketum vaccine?” asked Ummi.
- Mkini
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