Mohd Farhan said the patrols will ensure all congregants feel safe. — Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (March 10): The police will conduct periodic patrols at churches following an incident involving a man who caused a commotion during Sunset Mass at St Joseph’s Cathedral here on Saturday, said ACP Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah.
The Kuching police chief confirmed the new security measure in a statement yesterday.
“These patrols ensure all congregants feel safe while carrying out their religious practices,” he said.
Mohd Farhan said information regarding the man was received at around 6.50pm, when he entered St Joseph’s Cathedral through the main gate in a vehicle while playing loud music and holding a bottle of liquor.
“The man also suddenly started shouting profanities, hurling abusive words, and throwing the bottle before leaving the church in an agitated manner,” he said.
When contacted by The Borneo Post yesterday, Mohd Farhan said further investigation revealed the man possessed documentation from Hospital Sentosa, identifying him as a patient with mental health issues.
The police chief added the man’s family members also showed his medical records, which showed that the man is currently receiving treatment at Hospital Sentosa.
“While the man was on medication, he might have missed doses, leading to a recurrence of his symptoms,” Mohd Farhan said.
Separately, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Kuching Datuk Dr Simon Poh called upon the public to be kind and understanding towards the man.
Having considered the incident as a medical situation, Poh said no police report was lodged against him.
He also extended his thanks to the St Joseph’s ushers for handling the situation well, pointing out there was no physical violence involved when they stood beside the agitated man as he was being gently escorted out of the cathedral.