Those who incite racial issues will be arrested without warning - IGP

KUALA  LUMPUR, Aug 20 -- No more warnings will be given to those who try to incite racial and religious sensitivities, Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Abdul Hamid Bador.

He said those involved including political leaders will be investigated and arrested immediately.

"I will not hesitate to arrest them (those inciting racial issues). I have instructed my men to investigate  cases classified as involving religious and ethnic sensitivities. Don't wait, investigate and arrest. I repeat, no more warnings," he told  the Bernama News Channel here today.

Abdul Hamid said many had been led astray by certain agendas created by irresponsible parties to create unhealthy situations in the country.

He said the deceived individuals then shared unconfirmed news, recorded racist videos and posted them on social media as well as insulted and ridiculed the country's leaders.

"I urge the public not to be fooled by the political games of certain parties. Before they realise it, they are trapped and the person who viralled the video has no clue how it all started and is eventually arrested and charged.

"My advice is to not to act recklessly and emotionally," he said, adding that such  acts of disrespect had left the people confused, scared and the country looks as if it were in complete chaos.

Abdul Hamid said various racial issues were and have been resolved by the police to ensure peace and order prevailed.

"I call on political leaders to have a sense of responsibility this month (National Month) because we want to celebrate National Day. Many irresponsible statements are made, they (political leaders) should be held accountable after we had successfully upheld the democratic process (change in government after the 14th general election).

"Now it's like a total mess. All races and the people are afraid with what is going on in our country. Be responsible, do not issue statements without thinking, stop all this," he said.

-- BERNAMA