Four individuals to be charged for making provocative racial and religious statements, with cases involving temple damage and illegal mosque claims.
PUTRAJAYA: Four individuals will be charged in court for making statements that sparked provocative debates on religious and racial issues. Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail confirmed the charges will be filed at separate courts.
The cases involve GARAH rally coordinator Zamri Vinoth in Kuala Lumpur, Tamim Dahri in Langkawi, P. Mahendra Bhoopaty in Seremban, and activist D. Arumugam in Penang. Mohd Khalid stated that investigations into all four individuals have been completed.
He said the investigation papers were separately referred to the Attorney-General’s Chambers and the State Public Prosecutor. The charges follow Article 145(3) of the Federal Constitution.
Investigations into Zamri Vinoth relate to his statements regarding a gathering at the Sogo Complex on February 7. He will be charged under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code for statements conducing to public mischief.
Tamim Dahri will be charged under Section 295 of the Penal Code for damaging a sacred Hindu symbol. The incident occurred at the old Sri Maha Muniswarar Temple site in Langkawi.
Mahendra Bhoopathy and Arun face similar charges under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code. Mahendra’s case involves a post accusing a Seremban mosque of being illegal.
Arun’s investigation relates to his statement urging street protests if no action was taken against Zamri Vinoth. Mohd Khalid provided updates on the suspects’ whereabouts.
He said intelligence indicates Tamim is believed to have left the country for Thailand. Police are still uncertain of his exact location and are gathering further information.
Regarding Zamri Vinoth, Mohd Khalid said police have preliminary information on his movements. He believes Zamri may still be within the country and has received good cooperation from him.
Mohd Khalid emphasised that police will not compromise with any party threatening public order. He reiterated the force’s commitment to maintaining national safety and harmony.
