Police probe alleged attempt to overthrow govt

KULIM: The police have started an investigation to identify the mastermind behind the so-called attempt to overthrow the government by way of the demonstration held in Kuala Lumpur on April 28, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar said today.

He said the probe would cover various aspects of the gathering which led to pockets of riot.

"Several fresh arrests have been made following the publication of the photographs of the demonstrators, and several people have telephoned us to volunteer information on the incident.

"This is a welcome sign which indicates that Malaysians are a peace-loving people and do not want disruption of public order," he told reporters when asked to comment on the statement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak two days ago in Gua Musang that there was an attempt to topple the government by way of the demonstration.

Ismail, who was approached at a police meeting with the people in the Kulim district, said he hoped that more people would come forward with information to expedite the investigation.

On opposition claims in blogs that the police embedded themselves as demonstrators to spark the riots, Ismail said these unfounded claims must cease.

"Do not make nonsensical accusations ... you must be responsible. Nevertheless, every claim will be investigated," he said.

Asked about the complaints against three former top police chiefs, he said the police had received the complaints and were investigating.

"Give us some time to conduct the probe. Once the investigation is done, we will submit the papers to the public prosecutor," he said.

On high-policing, Ismail said the programme, which also covers going down to the ground, would be carried out nationwide as it was found to be effective in serving the people and getting their feedback on various issues.

He said that although some of the activities may seem to be orthodox in nature, they were most useful as a stepping stone for the police to implement a more modern approach to continue to get the people's cooperation.

"The police cannot be seen to be acting only upon getting a complaint or just sitting in the office. Such an image will only drive a wedge between the force and the people.

"Informal meetings such as this (today) are more effective and produce better results," he said.

Today's programme also saw Ismail, Internal Security and Public Order Director Datuk Salleh Mat Rashid, Kedah Chief Police Officer Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim and other senior police officers cycle from the Seri Malaysia Hotel to the Kulim market.

They chatted with the people along the way and handed them gifts.