Cops confirm action against journos at 'KTV riot' scene, cites 'misunderstanding'

 

Kuala Lumpur police have confirmed an incident involving a team investigating a riot at a Cheras entertainment centre and three journalists on the scene yesterday.

Kuala Lumpur police chief Fadil Marsus said that the police’s instruction for journalists from three Chinese dailies to delete photos taken while following up on Monday’s riot stemmed from a misunderstanding.

“In carrying out operational duties, there was a slight misunderstanding when police instructed (journalists) to delete images. I confirm that this happened.

“The roles of the police and the media complement each other. The police carry out their duties, journalists also carry out theirs - sometimes there is a conflict of interest,” he said during a press conference at the Kuala Lumpur police contingent headquarters today.

He also assured that the issue would be resolved amicably between the police and media practitioners.

“What I want is for such matters to be resolved properly (because) each has their role,” he said, adding that a discussion would be held on the matter between the police and journalists.

Deleted photos, videos

Yesterday, the Chinese-language Sin Chew Daily reported that three journalists covering follow-up developments on the riot were instructed to delete photos and videos taken while on duty.

The incident reportedly occurred when a journalist was approached by two plainclothes police officers, who checked her mobile phone before bringing her into the premises for questioning over recordings made while the forensic team was carrying out its work.

She was only released after being ordered to delete all photos and videos taken at the scene.

An investigating officer is also alleged to have asked two other journalists to delete their recordings.

In response, press groups Gerakan Media Merdeka and the National Union of Journalists Malaysia raised concerns over the actions and urged the police to explain their conduct.

Separately, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil expressed regret over the incident.

“I have not been fully briefed on what exactly took place, but I will get in touch with the police to obtain clarification,” said the government spokesperson when asked for comment during a weekly post-cabinet press conference in Putrajaya.

“Fundamentally, journalists must be given full space to do their work as long as they identify themselves as journalists on duty,” he stressed.

Hired criminals involved

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Police also revealed that the riot was orchestrated by a secret society group hired by certain parties.

Fadil said the incident, which saw some 50 masked men forcing their way into a karaoke centre using a lorry in broad daylight, before causing extensive damage and fleeing in several cars, stemmed from a business misunderstanding as well as longstanding grudges.

So far, Fadil said 45 individuals involved in the riot have been arrested, including two school students.

“The arrests were carried out around the Klang Valley and outside the Klang Valley. There are still others involved who have yet to be apprehended,” he added. - Mkini