PUTRAJAYA – Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail urged Malaysians not to engage in actions contrary to the law following a suspected arson case involving Beruas MP Datuk Ngeh Koo Ham.
“We urge the rakyat against ever taking actions that are against the law, as this can lead to severe punishments,” he told a press conference at the ministry today.
At the same time, Saifuddin assured that police would be professional when investigating the incident and remain committed to ensuring public safety.
Also present during the press conference was Bukit Aman’s criminal investigation department director Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain.
When asked whether the Molotov cocktail was used by a professional, Shuhaily said that discerning the individual’s expertise would be challenging without knowledge of the components within the weapon.
However, he said that one bottle used in the incident had been submitted to forensics for further examination.
In a press conference earlier today, Ngeh confirmed that his Mercedes-Benz E300 was engulfed in flames at approximately 2.15am, prompting him to alert police and the Fire and Rescue Department.
He claimed that the arson attack was triggered by his controversial statement regarding the appointment of a non-Muslim constitutional law expert and a representative from the Malaysian Bar to the special committee on shariah laws.
His statement on December 28 drew flak from Malay leaders in both the government and opposition blocs, who accused him of provocation and undermining confidence in the Malay rulers.
In a Facebook post, DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke confirmed the damage to Ngeh’s property caused by the arson attack. Authorities discovered a Molotov cocktail near the house at around 3am today.
Police are actively investigating the case and have launched a manhunt for the suspect. – January 10, 2024