KUALA LUMPUR – Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani did not describe a rape threat against a teenager as perhaps being a joke by her classmate, said the force following reports by Malaysiakini and China Press.
Bukit Aman corporate communications secretariat A. Skandaguru in a statement today said Acryl Sani’s use of the phrase “may be a joke by her classmate” in response to a journalist’s question was only to describe an aspect of the case that is being investigated, and not the case itself, as reported by the two publications.
“The headlines for both reports by the news portals are very misleading because they failed to give an accurate take on what was said by the deputy IGP during the press conference (yesterday).
“The headlines, which described only part of the response, but were depicted as the essence of the reports, are an irresponsible act that can cause concern within the community, damage the credibility of the police force, as well as spark negative speculation about the victim in the case.”
He said no aspect of the case is considered a “joke”, and that police take seriously all reports lodged and are committed to conducting detailed investigations.
“The accountability of the media in reporting such cases is necessary to prevent the wrong perception among the community before the investigation process is completed.”
This comes after Malaysiakini reported that Acryl Sani allegedly described a rape threat against a 17-year-old girl as a possible joke by her classmate.
The teen was reportedly issued the threat after calling out a male teacher for purportedly making light of rape.
“The student has filed two police reports. The first is on what she felt was an improper approach by her teacher,” Acryl Sani was quoted as saying.
“The second report is regarding what may be a joke by her classmate, which she couldn’t accept.”
He added that investigation papers have been opened, and statements are being taken.
The teen’s allegations that her physical and health education teacher made jokes about rape caused public outrage over the weekend.
The educator’s alleged comments include telling boys in class that if they were to commit rape, they should target those above 18.
The female student then allegedly received an audio message from a male classmate who was unhappy that she made the issue public instead of dealing with it internally.
“If I get you, I will shred you or rape you and send you to Thailand,” the boy allegedly said in a recording published by the teen. – The Vibes, April 27, 2021
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