Tiong calls for action against all involved in Sibu assault

 

Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has called for a thorough police investigation into an alleged assault in Sibu and action against everyone involved. - NSTP pic

KUALA LUMPUR: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has called for a thorough police investigation into an alleged assault in Sibu and action against everyone involved.

Tiong, who is also Dudong member of Parliament, said the investigation should not stop with the four suspects currently in custody.

He said police should use information obtained from those arrested, including their statements, to identify and track down others who may have been involved.

"If there were 20 or 30 people involved, why have only three or four been arrested?

"The police should be able to identify the others based on the statements given by those already arrested. If the investigation cannot uncover any further leads, then something is clearly not right," he said in a statement.

Tiong said members of the public had expressed concern to him over recent incidents of violence in Sibu and the town's security situation.

He said the public wanted police to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure appropriate action was taken to restore confidence in law enforcement.

Tiong also called on the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to conduct a thorough investigation and urged its Anti-Vice, Gambling and Secret Societies Division (D7) to step up efforts to monitor secret societies, gangs and related illegal activities in Sibu.

He said raids and enforcement operations should be carried out where necessary.

"Attempts by certain gang members to flaunt their so-called influence or power should not be taken lightly.

"The police, particularly D7, must have a clear understanding of these groups and their members, and take the necessary action against them," he said.

Tiong also urged anyone involved in the incident to surrender to police rather than wait to be arrested or attempt to flee.

"If you have done something wrong, come forward and surrender yourself. We are a country governed by law.

"No one is above the law and so-called 'underworld rules' or gang influence must never be allowed to take the place of the law."

He urged police to intensify enforcement against secret societies and gang-related activities to ensure Sibu remains a safe place to live and work. - NST