KUALA LUMPUR: The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) have detained 12 locals linked to the so-called IS group of militants on suspicion of plotting to launch attacks on strategic and important targets in the Klang Valley.
In a statement here, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar said the Special Branch Counter-Terrorism Division nabbed the suspects – believed to be members of a terror cell – Saturday and yesterday in Hulu Langat and Cheras.The suspects are aged between 17 and 41.
“The plan to launch the attacks by members of the terror cell was in response to a call by the senior leaders of the IS in Syria. Their aim was to launch attacks on secular Islamic national interests which they claim to be their enemies, and a reaction to the (police) operations to nab those suspected to be involved with the IS,” said Khalid.
As of April 12, the police have detained 93 people suspected to be involved in IS-related activities. Of the total, 77 are Malaysians and the rest, foreign nationals.
In the two-day operation in Hulu Langat and Cheras, PDRM also seized 20kg of ammonium nitrate, 20kg of potassium nitrate and about two litres of liquid believed to be kerosene.
In addition, the police also seized two units of remote controls, motor alarm, four nine volt batteries, digital scale, two units of measures, various types of wires, three PVC pipes and covers, IS flag and several equipment believed to be used in producing explosives.
Khalid said the 12 suspects were in police custody on suspicion of committing offences under Chapter VI A – offences related to violence and investigated under the Penal Code (Act 574).
“In addition, they will also be investigated according to procedures under the Security Offences Act (Special Measures 2012 (Act 747).
Malaysia has taken firm measures in curbing IS-linked activities in the country and at international level, by hunting those suspected of being involved with the militant group.
A law, namely the Violence Prevention Act (POTA) to check the threat of IS was also introduced recently.
The issue of IS is also expected to be discussed by senior officers and leaders at the ASEAN Summit which is currently underway in the federal capital. — Bernama