KUALA LUMPUR 15 February 2025 – Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stated that the police are conducting an investigation, taking into account all aspects, including the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the use of firearms, in relation to the shooting incident in the waters of Tanjung Rhu.
He said an internal investigation is also being carried out to determine whether there were any legal violations.
“They are exposed to life-threatening situations, especially at 3 a.m. in the middle of a dark ocean.
“So, if we put ourselves in their position, we would understand that it is a form of strategy, but it must follow procedures, including the use of firearms and so on,” he said after officiating the Two-Decade Celebration of Maritime Malaysia in Georgetown, Penang.
Commenting further, Saifuddin said the current investigation is focused on migrant smuggling activities, which is a serious crime under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act (ATIPSOM).
He noted that the pursuit of suspects was part of Maritime Malaysia’s efforts to thwart migrant smuggling on the day of the incident.
“So, I want to state that Maritime Malaysia’s internal investigation is ongoing. The police investigation is also underway under various acts, including the Firearms Act and ATIPSOM.
“Let the investigation process take its course, and I will provide updates from time to time,” he said.
Previously, reports claimed that the incident on January 24 stemmed from a group of undocumented immigrants (PATI) from Indonesia who allegedly provoked Malaysian enforcement officers, with two confirmed deaths and three others injured to date.
Evidence shows that the Maritime Malaysia boat was rammed by the suspect’s boat, and authorities found two machetes on board the Indonesian boat involved.
The Indonesian government has urged Malaysia to take firm action if Maritime Malaysia officers used excessive force in the incident.
Leave a comment