Malaysia

Cops detain activist for allegedly trespassing into heritage property

Mark Lay’s arrest believed to be related to his exposés over last four months 

Updated 3 years ago · Published on 13 Apr 2023 8:56PM

Cops detain activist for allegedly trespassing into heritage property
George Town Heritage Action Group co-founder Mark Lay has been detained by the police for questioning after a report was lodged against him for allegedly trespassing into a heritage property. – HIMANSHU BHATT/The Vibes file pic, April 13, 2023

by Ian McIntyre

GEORGE TOWN – George Town Heritage Action Group co-founder Mark Lay has been detained by the police for questioning following a report lodged against the New Zealander recently. 

Lay, who confirmed the matter, was asked to present himself at the district police headquarters today, following a report alleging that he had trespassed into a heritage property. 

He was subsequently detained following a brief query by the investigative officers. 

Mark Lay, who exposed alleged controversies surrounding George Town heritage properties and buffer zones was earlier called by the police to give a statement at the police station before he was arrested. – Mara J. Dass pic, April 13, 2023
Mark Lay, who exposed alleged controversies surrounding George Town heritage properties and buffer zones was earlier called by the police to give a statement at the police station before he was arrested. – Mara J. Dass pic, April 13, 2023

The report was believed to have been lodged by a heritage building owner. 

Upon his arrest, fellow heritage activists such as Khoo Salma Nasution learned that he was subsequently detained overnight. 

Lay’s arrest is believed to be related to his exposés in the last four months of alleged controversies in the heritage properties and buffer zones. – The Vibes, April 13, 2023

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