Man Detained For FB Post That Allegedly Led To A Vegetable Seller's Car Being Set Ablaze
His comments led a few villagers to believe that the woman was driving under the influence of alcohol, when a breathalyser test proved otherwise.
By Alyssa Pong — 22 Jun 2020, 12:55 PM
On 21 June, a 33-year-old man was detained for a Facebook post falsely claiming that a road accident in Tasek Gelugor was caused by drink-driving
Referring to the collision between a Kia Spectra and two motorcycles last Thursday, the post suggested that the woman driver had been under the influence of alcohol, when a breathalyser test proved that she was not.
The man's post is believed to have been responsible for fuelling angry sentiments among a few individuals who then set the Kia Spectra on fire.
According to New Straits Times, Seberang Perai Utara (SPU) district police chief Assistant Commissioner (ACP) Noorzainy Mohd Noor said in a statement that the 33-year-old was detained at Padang Menora yesterday.
He is currently being investigated under Section 233 of the 1988 Communications and Multimedia Act and Section 505(c) of the Penal Code
ACP Noorzainy added, "[The man] admitted to uploading the post without checking or verifying [the facts] with authorities."
If convicted of these offences, the detainee could face up to RM50,000 in fines and a two-year jail sentence.
Two other men, brothers of the injured motorcyclists, were detained for their aggressive and loaded comments on Facebook
The 19-year-old and 29-year-old are being investigated under Section 435 of the Penal Code for uploading a video showing the car being set ablaze alongside their brash comments on the social media platform.
A report by Astro Awani quoted ACP Noorzainy as saying, "However, they [the brothers] are yet to cooperate with us and tell us who was responsible for the arson attack."
Today, the three men are expected to be taken to Butterworth Sessions Court for further action.
According to Sinar Harian, the district police chief also reminded the public, "Do not share any information if you are unsure of its accuracy."
