Police detain three individuals for disrupting a public event attended by MACC chief Azam Baki, with investigations focusing on obstruction and incitement.
KUALA LUMPUR: Police have arrested three individuals suspected of involvement in a protest that disrupted a public event attended by Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki.
Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Fadil Marsus confirmed the arrests, stating the suspects have been remanded for three days to assist with investigations.
He revealed that more than two police reports have been lodged in connection with the incident.
“We have opened investigation papers for offences involving obstruction of a public servant, incitement and trespass,” Fadil said at a press conference.
He explained that the arrests were necessary to complete investigations and determine if the actions obstructed public servants from performing their duties.
Fadil added that investigations are being expedited and further action is possible once they are concluded.
Meanwhile, Malaysia Corruption Watch (MCW) president Jais Abdul Karim criticised the protestors’ actions as exceeding the bounds of freedom of speech.
He stated that while freedom of speech must be respected in a democracy, it should not be misused to cause provocation or disturb public order.
“Raising placards and causing disruption during an official programme is not a form of mature advocacy,” Jais said in a statement.
He emphasised that Malaysia provides legitimate channels, such as official reports and legal processes, for expressing views.
The incident occurred during the Wacana Ilmiah Perdana at Dewan Tun Dr Ismail, World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, when the event’s calm atmosphere was disrupted.
Two men were seen holding placards reading “Tangkap Azam Baki” and “Azam Baki Simbol Reformati” during a keynote address.