Police warn against scare rumour mongering in social media

KOTA KINABALU - Police have denied claims circulating on social media that eight Abu Sayyaf suicide bombers were targeting shopping complexes in the city.

"We strongly deny social media claims Abu Sayyaf suicide bombers were targeting various locations in Kota Kinabalu City in particular and Sabah in general,'' Kota Kinabalu City police chief Asst Comm M. Chandra (pic) said Saturday.

He said the viral messages on Facebook and WhatsApp among other social media platforms were creating uneasiness and fear among the people.

Chandra said that firm action would be taken against irresponsible parties spreading such rumours.

He said police were investigating the case under criminal intimidation and also under the Communication and Multimedia Act among other laws against those involved in spreading the false information that creates public fear.

"We are constantly on the alert to ensure public safety,'' Chandra reassured.

The viral social media message stemmed from what was said to be information sent to its police officers on the ground, saying Abu Sayyaf were planting eight suicide bombers in Kota Kinabalu and 10 in Kuala Lumpur.