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KELANTAN Police Chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat reiterated that his suggestion to review existing laws on consensual underage sexual relations represents solely his personal view and will not be withdrawn despite pressure to do so.
“Why should I retract my statement when what I expressed is my opinion? It is up to the government whether or not to take it into consideration,” he told reporters during the Investiture Ceremony in conjunction with Sultan Muhammad V’s 56th birthday at Istana Balai Besar today.
Mohd Yusoff explained that even if the suggestion is not examined further, it is not a problem, adding that the Minister of Home Affairs had acknowledged the comments as his personal standpoint.
Earlier reports cited the Kelantan police’s recommendation that laws be reassessed to ensure accountability extends beyond perpetrators alone to also include their partners in cases of consensual underage sex, which reportedly accounts for nearly 90 per cent of statutory rape cases in the state.
Meanwhile, in addressing ongoing enforcement operations along the Kelantan-Thailand border, the Police Chief revealed plans to commence the demolition of 43 illegal jetties at Pasir Mas next month. This is part of a wider initiative to dismantle 153 unauthorised river jetties built on government land.
“Demolition will begin mid-next month in Pasir Mas, with other districts following thereafter,” he said, adding that warning notices have been issued as a courtesy despite legal provisions allowing immediate action without notice.
When questioned about a syndicate allegedly involved in smuggling cooking oil using these illegal jetties, reportedly led by an individual known as ‘Datuk John,’ Datuk Mohd Yusoff confirmed that investigations are ongoing.
“The Sungai Golok border is extensive and open, and smugglers may exploit moments when enforcement personnel are resting, choosing specific locations,” he remarked. “Boats from Thailand are always ready to transport goods across the border at any time.” - September 29, 2025
