Malaysia

[UPDATED] Cops quiz 8 over #Lawan rally

They include activists Muhammad Alshatri, Tharma Pillai, Sevan Doraisamy

Updated 4 years ago · Published on 02 Aug 2021 10:30AM

[UPDATED] Cops quiz 8 over #Lawan rally
Some of the activists arriving at the Dang Wangi district police headquarters today to have their statements taken. – ALIF OMAR/The Vibes pic, August 2, 2021

by Arjun Mohanakrishnan

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.

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).”

Participants of Saturday's #Lawan rally at the Dang Wangi district police headquarters today. – ALIF OMAR/The Vibes pic, August 2, 2021
Participants of Saturday's #Lawan rally at the Dang Wangi district police headquarters today. – ALIF OMAR/The Vibes pic, August 2, 2021

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

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