KOTA KINABALU: Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail urged the public to stop making negative comments about the student bullying case in Papar that could cause unrest and touch on sensitive racial, religious and royalty (3R) issues.
Speaking to the media after visiting Governor Tun Musa Aman, Mohd Khalid pointed out the need to give police adequate space to complete their investigation thoroughly.
“I appeal to all parties to allow police to continue their investigation. Negative comments and public perceptions linking this to 3R issues sometimes make it difficult for us to complete investigations.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});“I urge related parties not to make negative comments that could create an unhealthy atmosphere or unrest by associating certain parties, politics, or the palace with this issue,” he said.
Regarding the bullying case involving the death of 13-year-old Zara Qairina Mahathir from Sipitang on July 17, Mohd Khalid said 60 witnesses comprising students, staff and teachers have been interviewed.
“We have obtained substantial information and evidence. The investigation papers have been completed and submitted to the Criminal Investigation Department at Bukit Aman headquarters and will be brought to the Deputy Public Prosecutor for further action,” he said.
The IGP said his visit to the Governor was aimed at discussing security and stability issues in Sabah, including domestic matters and international concerns involving territorial waters with the Philippines and claims by China.
“We are in a win-win situation, discussing matters properly to ensure everything can be resolved well,” he added. Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun accompanied him during the visit.
This is Mohd Khalid’s first official visit to Sabah since his appointment as IGP on June 23.