[UPDATED] Cops quiz 8 over #Lawan rally

KUALA LUMPUR – Eight individuals were questioned at the Dang Wangi district police headquarters here today over their involvement in Saturday’s #Lawan protests.

They include activists Muhammad Alshatri, Tharma Pillai, Sevan Doraisamy, Qyira Yusri, Donny Chee, Mohammad Asraf Sharafi and Edylyn Beverly Joeman. 

It is understood three other individuals – Siti Nurizah, Syazwani Mahmud and lawyer Asheeq Ali – were also called in.

The first eight individuals, who entered at 10am, left the police station at 12.30pm.

UPDATE / TERKINI:

8 people who were called in to IPD Dang Wangi 10am today to assist investigations in regards to their participation in the #LAWAN gathering on 31/07/2021 in Dataran Merdeka has finished their questioning session. pic.twitter.com/3P7s9N6UuN

— #Undi18 #ManaUndiKami ? (@UNDI18MY) August 2, 2021

Asraf told reporters that the police were conducting investigations pursuant to the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases (Measures Within Infected Local Areas) Regulations 2021 for violating Covid-19 standard operating procedures.

He said on behalf of Sekretariat Solidariti Rakyat, he condemns the action of authorities allegedly attempting to silence the voices of youth, who are speaking out and criticising the government.

“We did not protest to have fun. We had marshals to make sure there was physical distancing, and everyone was wearing a mask.

“Those with a history of illnesses or living with family, we advised them not to attend the rally.

“We also told those who came to protest to get tested for Covid-19 and isolate themselves (afterwards).”

Asheeq, who came out of questioning before 1.30pm, told reporters that he was at the #Lawan protest to provide legal services to the demonstrators, if needed.

“I did not march or hold placards, I was merely there on standby to provide legal aid to whoever might need it.”

He said if police issue a compound against him, he will challenge it in court.

Gerakan Guaman Rakyat (Gegar) spokesman M. Jay Raj, meanwhile, expressed disappointment with the authorities for taking action against a lawyer.

“The authorities should not call up a lawyer who was merely there to assist protesters. To the youth who have been called up by the authorities, do not fear, and call Gegar at 011-2186-2826.” – The Vibes, August 2, 2021