PADAWAN: Police have advised people to exercise caution and avoid spreading false information through social media or messages, failing which they will risk legal consequences.
The advice comes after a misleading message on WhatsApp regarding a purported robbery and burglary in Lorong 9, Kampung Siburan Cina.
Padawan police chief Supt Abang Zainal Abidin Abang Ahmad clarified that the viral message, claiming the crimes involved three or more suspects wearing masks and carrying weapons, was baseless.
The message, which went viral across multiple WhatsApp groups, was detected by police around 1pm yesterday (Jan 30).
“In response to the viral message, we would like to clarify that no such incident occurred in Padawan, particularly in Siburan, this year.
“Upon investigation, it was found that a robbery did take place on Jan 29, but it transpired in Serian, not Padawan, as falsely claimed in the viral message,” he said.
Abang Zainal warned that the act of fabricating stories either through social media or forwarding any form of text or video and audio that may cause public disturbance, is a serious offence under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and Section 504 of the Penal Code.
If convicted, it could result in a fine up to RM50,000 for offences under the Communications and Multimedia Act while, an imprisonment of up to two years or a fine or both, can be imposed under the Penal Code.
He stressed that police are thoroughly investigating the origin and spread of the false messages on WhatsApp.
“Therefore, we advise the public to remain vigilant, especially regarding any sightings of four or more individuals in hoods or baseball caps loitering behind houses after midnight,” he said.
Abang Zainal urged the community to trust the police in maintaining law and order and cautioned against taking matters into their own hands.
Those with pertinent information are encouraged to contact the Padawan police operations room at 082-862233 for prompt action.
