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POLICE in Selangor have moved to restrict the movements of a man suspected of involvement in a contentious petition relating to the azan in Ampang, placing him on a special watchlist to prevent any attempt to leave the country while investigations continue.
State Police Chief Datuk Shazeli Kahar said the decision followed multiple police reports lodged by residents and members of a local surau committee, after objections were raised within a housing area over religious practices.
“So far, the suspect has not yet been arrested but has been placed on a special watchlist to ensure he does not leave Malaysia. Efforts are ongoing to locate and detain the suspect,” he said.
He explained that individuals placed under such a listing would be flagged at all exit points.
“When registered under this special circulation list, they will face difficulty leaving the country because the suspect’s name is flagged at airports. If detected, an arrest will be made,” he said.
The case is being investigated under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act, after preliminary findings suggested potential legal breaches linked to the petition.
Police have already recorded statements from several individuals, including members of the affected community, while a representative from a local councillor’s office has also come forward to assist with inquiries.
“This suspect we have yet to meet and will be called to assist in the investigation as soon as possible. If members of the public know his whereabouts, please contact the Ampang district police headquarters so that we can complete the investigation,” he said.
“At this stage, the investigation is not yet complete. We are examining the true motive behind this case. We ask for space to conduct a thorough and fair investigation for all parties,” he added.
Shazeli urged the public to exercise caution in their actions and communications, warning against conduct that could fall foul of sedition laws.
The investigation stems from a police report lodged by a surau committee in Ampang last Friday, following claims that certain individuals had challenged aspects of the surau’s operations, including the call to prayer, congregational activities and the use of outdoor spaces.
Among the issues raised were allegations that the azan was disruptive, alongside calls for congregational prayers to be halted, fuelling tensions within the local community. - April 26, 2026
