POLICE have arrested 13 Nepalese factory workers for allegedly attempting to incite a riot following the death of a fellow worker in a hit-and-run accident on Friday night at Batu 8, Jalan Changkat Jong.
Hilir Perak District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Dr. Bakri Zainal, confirmed that the individuals were detained to assist in investigations under Section 147 of the Penal Code for rioting.
Around 9:35pm on Friday, the Hilir Perak District Operations Room received a report about the fatal accident involving a Nepalese pedestrian on Batu 8, Jalan Changkat Jong.
Following the incident, approximately 1,000 workers from a nearby factory gathered at the scene, blocking the road and disrupting traffic.
In response, Bakri stated that police forces were deployed to calm and control the situation.
"The situation was brought under control by 2 a.m. on Saturday after the workers had returned to their respective dormitories," he added.
The hit-and-run case is currently being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.
Authorities are urging members of the public who have information regarding the incident to contact the investigating officer, Inspector Mohammad Syamil, at 011-10065817.
Meanwhile, social media platforms have been abuzz with images of foreign workers blocking traffic at the accident site.
Meanwhile, Bernama cited Bakri saying all the detainees have been remanded for four days, starting today, following an application made at the Teluk Intan Magistrate's Court for further investigation.
“The authorities will take firm action against those involved to uphold public safety and ensure appropriate legal measures are enforced.
“The investigation is ongoing, and the public is urged to refrain from speculating,” he said. – March 15, 2025
