By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Apr 17: Defence Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob warns that those who flout the Movement Control Order (MCO) and elude the authorities will not escape the long arm of the law.
He was referring to a case which happened yesterday (Apr 16) where an individual and family viralled on WhatsApp about how they made their way back to Kuala Lumpur and gave tips on how to trick the police.
“I want to remind everyone, don’t be too proud (of yourself) when committed an illegal act and then influence others to follow in your bad behaviour and commit wrongdoings.
“The police have identified the offenders and action will be taken against them. No one can escape from facing legal and police actions if they commit wrongs,” he told a daily press conference on MCO in Putrajaya today.
Moreover, Ismail Sabri said the offenders have admitted flouting the regulations under MCO.
“So please, don’t feel proud when committing wrongs and considering yourselves a hero because in the end, you will be punished by the law and trouble yourself and family,” he said.
Meanwhile, he also reiterated that people should not question the actions taken by police against offenders or those issuing warrants because the police have been given the authority under Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342) to enforce any measures under the MCO.
“Section 3.1 of the Act allows the Health Ministry, who had the authority, to appoint or to authorise any government agencies as deemed necessary to control or enforce any orders that were introduced.
“This means the Minister of Health can appoint any suitable person including from agencies, police, APM (Civil Defence Force Malaysia) and APMM (Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency) to enforce law and regulations under Act 342,” he added.—DayakDaily
