Police Arrest Freelance Preacher for Seditious Facebook Post
Background
Kuala Lumpur: Police arrested a freelance preacher today following a Facebook post allegedly containing seditious elements that could threaten public order.
Arrest and Investigation
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain stated that the 41-year-old preacher was detained in Taman Melati Indah, Beseri, Kangar, Perlis, and taken to the Padang Besar District Police Headquarters (IPD). He added that a remand order would be sought on him at the Kangar Magistrate’s Court tomorrow.
Police Report
The preacher was arrested following a police report lodged yesterday at the Dang Wangi police station regarding his post on the relocation of the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple at Jalan Masjid India here to a new site. The complainant noticed comments made on social media regarding the outcome of negotiations on the temple’s relocation. The complainant has requested the police to investigate the preacher over remarks that allegedly contained seditious elements and defamed the Hindu religion.
Interrogation and Evidence
During the interrogation, a total of 24 questions were asked, all of which were answered by the suspect. The police have also seized a mobile phone to assist in the investigation. The case is being investigated under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948 and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
Background on Temple Relocation
On Tuesday, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa announced that the new temple site, covering an area of 4,000 square feet, is located approximately 50 metres from its original location. Last Thursday, the media reported that discussions regarding the relocation of the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple, which is situated on land owned by Jakel Group, had proceeded harmoniously between the company, temple management, and Kuala Lumpur City Hall.
Conclusion
The arrest of the freelance preacher serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible social media use and the potential consequences of spreading seditious content. The police will continue to investigate and take necessary actions to ensure public order is maintained.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the reason for the arrest of the freelance preacher?
The preacher was arrested for a Facebook post allegedly containing seditious elements that could threaten public order. - What was the content of the Facebook post that led to the arrest?
The post was about the relocation of the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple and contained remarks that allegedly contained seditious elements and defamed the Hindu religion. - What is the next step in the investigation?
A remand order will be sought on the preacher at the Kangar Magistrate’s Court tomorrow. - What are the charges being investigated?
The case is being investigated under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948 and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.