PEKAN: Police have defended their conduct in the arrest of two men during a crime prevention operation on Jalan Kuantan-Pekan, following a viral social media video. The incident involved a confrontation with law enforcement officers, prompting public scrutiny.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Pekan district police chief Supt Mohd Zaidi Mat Zin stated that the incident occurred at approximately 9:40 p.m. The police stopped a Perodua Axia vehicle carrying the suspects, aged 20 and 31, as part of Ops Cegah Jenayah. Officers from the National Anti-Drugs Agency requested the men undergo urine tests for drug screening.
As described by Mohd Zaidi, the situation escalated when the suspects attempted to flee, pushing police officers in an effort to return to their vehicle. This led to a physical altercation, resulting in minor injuries to two officers. Despite the confrontation, Mohd Zaidi emphasized that the suspects were subdued with minimal force, and maintained that the police acted appropriately.
Both men tested positive for methamphetamine, with investigations ongoing under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 and Section 186 of the Penal Code. Mohd Zaidi urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation about the incident, which could harm the reputation of the Pekan district police.
He appealed to the community for cooperation with law enforcement efforts, underscoring the importance of responsible public conduct in maintaining the integrity of police operations. Mohd Zaidi also cautioned against speculation that could damage the image of the local police headquarters.