Cops receive 11 reports over video allegedly defaming PM

 

Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain said the classified criminal investigation unit at Bukit Aman is handling the probe. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: 

Police have received 11 reports over a viral video allegedly defaming Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in connection with his recent interview on CNN, says Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain.

He said police have recorded statements from 12 witnesses as part of the ongoing investigation, Bernama reported.

“The case is being investigated under Section 504 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act,” he said.

“The classified criminal investigation unit (USJT) at Bukit Aman is handling the investigation and the probe papers will be submitted to the Attorney-General’s Chambers soon,” he was quoted as saying.

Yesterday, the Gerak Gempur Media Sosial Rakyat Secretariat, a coalition of 20 NGOs, lodged a police report over the video.

Its spokesman Shahbudin Embun said the video was believed to have been uploaded to the Papa Berry Studios channel by an individual.

Shahbudin said the video, which claimed Anwar recognised Israel’s existence, was aimed at inciting and provoking the public, especially the Muslim community.

Dang Wangi police chief Sulizmie Affendy Sulaiman confirmed receiving the report and said the matter had been referred to Bukit Aman for further action.

Anwar was reported to have said “Malaysia recognised Israel’s right to exist and to defend itself”, based on footage purportedly taken from the interview.

Last Friday, Anwar stressed that Malaysia remains consistent in its stance on Israel. He emphasised that Putrajaya has never diplomatically recognised Israel’s existence. - FMT