KANGAR: Independent preacher Zamri Vinoth has been released from custody just hours after a two-day remand order was granted by the Kangar magistrates’ court this morning. His sudden release has sparked public debate over the influence of political and social pressure on law enforcement decisions.
Bersatu politician Badrul Hisham Shaharin, also known as Chegubard, claimed that “mass public pressure” played a crucial role in securing Zamri’s release before Friday prayers today. However, no official confirmation has been provided by the authorities.
Zamri was arrested in Perlis yesterday following a Facebook post deemed seditious concerning the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman temple in Kuala Lumpur. Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain stated that the case was being investigated under the Sedition Act and the Communications and Multimedia Act for allegedly tarnishing the reputation of the Hindu faith.
The temple became the centre of controversy after news broke that it would be relocated. A textile company that acquired the land had proposed building a mosque, leading to negotiations with the temple committee. The committee later agreed to shift the temple 50 meters away to a 4,000 sq ft site.
Zamri is no stranger to controversy, having previously faced investigations over remarks about Hindu worshippers performing the kavadi ritual. Nearly 900 police reports were lodged against him, with investigation papers already submitted to the Attorney-General’s Chambers.
His sudden release has reignited discussions on the application of the law, with some questioning whether legal proceedings were influenced by external pressure. Meanwhile, authorities have yet to clarify the reasoning behind his early discharge.