Deputy IGP: PDRM Wasn't Slow Because They Didn't Receive Report Before The 1975 Left M'sia
He said the local authorities will be dealing with the UK authorities should there be an indictment process.
By Yap Wan Xiang — 26 Jul 2023, 04:55 PM
The Deputy Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has defended the police force over its handling of the recent controversy surrounding the pop band, The 1975
Speaking during a press conference yesterday, 25 July, Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said that the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) was not inefficient when dealing with the band's frontman, Matty Healy, as they did not receive a report until 2pm on Saturday, 22 July.
Healy, who was performing at Good Vibes Festival 2023 in Sepang the night prior, was seen criticising the government over the country's anti-LGBTQ+ law and behaving in an unruly manner on stage.
"The incident occurred on 21 July at 11.30pm. We were informed about the incident after the concert had stopped and the band had flown back to the UK at 5.30am.
"In just six hours, they left for home and the first police report (we) received was the next day at 2pm. So, we didn't have time to take action because they had already left," Berita Harian quoted Ayob Khan as saying.
The 1975's frontman, Matty Healy, at Good Vibes Festival 2023 in Sepang last Friday, 21 July.
Image via Social media via New Straits TimesThe deputy IGP said PDRM will be dealing with the UK authorities should there be an indictment process
He also explained why the authorities cannot request for help from Interpol to arrest The 1975.
"The offence was committed in this country, so we can't ask for a red notice from Interpol unless it is a serious offence. We will now deal with the UK authorities.
"I'm sure that after this, the Central Agency for Application for Filming and Performance by Foreign Artistes (PUSPAL) will be more careful," he said.
Commenting further, Ayob Khan stated that the police have already recorded 13 statements to aid in the investigation concerning the actions of the British band.
The case is currently being investigated under Section 509 and Section 504 of the Penal Code, as well as Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act.
All three provisions pertain to offences related to provocation and insulting the modesty of any person.
Ayob Khan's statement comes after former home minister Satuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin questioned why the authorities did not arrest the members of The 1975, but could detain PAS leader Sanusi Nor at 3am over a "minor offence", reported Free Malaysia Today.
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