Malaysian police have prevented 26 terror attacks since 2012, detaining 75 militants and highlighting the role of preventive security laws.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Royal Malaysia Police’s Counter Terrorism Division has thwarted 26 attempted terrorist attacks in the country between 2012 and 2024.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said the foiled plots involved both group-based and lone-actor threats. He confirmed only two attacks were carried out successfully during that period.
These were the 2016 bombing of a pub in Puchong and the assault on the Ulu Tiram Police Station in Johor last year. The police station attack resulted in the deaths of two officers.
Ayob Khan stated that 75 members of militant groups planning attacks in Malaysia were detained. He said those arrested subscribed to the Salafi Jihadi ideology of the Islamic State group.
All suspects were arrested under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012. They were subsequently charged under the Penal Code or subjected to orders under other preventive laws.
Those charged under the Penal Code were convicted and received prison sentences ranging from one to 25 years.
The foiled plots included attempts to attack foreign embassies in Kuala Lumpur using improvised explosive devices in 2012. Other targets included entertainment outlets in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor in 2013.
Security forces also prevented attacks on places of worship, public premises, and crowded locations. Large-scale plots targeting high-profile individuals and strategic facilities, including in Putrajaya, were also stopped.
Addressing doubts about the suspects’ capabilities, Ayob Khan said investigations revealed several had produced IEDs, vehicle-borne bombs, firearms, and hand grenades. He added that successful explosive tests had been conducted.
He emphasised the crucial role of preventive laws like SOSMA, POTA, and POCA. These laws enable early action to stop violent plans before any loss of life occurs.
“We recognise human rights, but they must be balanced against security threats,” Ayob Khan said. He concluded by stating, “There is no absolute freedom.”
