POLICE have dismissed claims of a shooting incident near Dataran Nilai after a viral social media video triggered speculation and public alarm over an alleged exchange of gunfire in the area.
Nilai district police chief Superintendent Johari Yahya said the footage circulating online actually showed a police operation to arrest four suspects connected to robbery and snatch theft cases in Johor.
The incident took place at about 10pm near Dataran Nilai, Putra Point, where officers intercepted suspects who allegedly attempted to flee during the operation.
“This morning, the Nilai District Police Headquarters detected a viral video on social media applications showing a police arrest operation in the Dataran Nilai, Putra Point area here,” he said in a statement today.
“The operation only involved efforts to detain suspects who attempted to escape, resulting in a minor struggle before all suspects were successfully arrested by police,” he added.
Johari stressed that no shots were fired during the operation, contrary to allegations widely circulated by social media users following the release of the video.
Authorities said the operation led to the arrest of three local men and one local woman aged between 22 and 28, all believed to be linked to robbery and snatch theft cases in Sagil, Tangkak, Johor.
Police also seized two vehicles during the operation, including a Perodua Myvi believed to have been used during the crimes.
Further inspections resulted in the confiscation of several mobile phones and other items suspected to be connected to the investigation.
Johari said the case is being investigated under Section 394 of the Penal Code, which covers voluntarily causing hurt while committing robbery.
He urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information or making speculative claims regarding the viral footage, warning that such actions could create unnecessary public anxiety and confusion. - May 24, 2026
