KOTA BHARU, October 20 2026, Activists advocating for Myanmar refugees have been urged to understand the law and the responsibilities of enforcement agencies before organising activities, Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said.
He said that while the activists might have good intentions, a lack of legal understanding could lead to complications, particularly when events attract large crowds that are difficult to control.
Mohd Yusoff said the issue of Myanmar refugees had been discussed by the government for decades and required an appropriate approach.
Commenting on an investigation involving social media activists who organised an activity for the refugee community, he said police were finalising the investigation papers before submitting them to the Deputy Public Prosecutor.
The organising group, estimated to comprise 14 to 16 people, had promoted the activity on social media, attracting nearly 100 participants.
He said the large turnout had made crowd control challenging. A robbery involving a member of the Myanmar refugee community was also reported, allegedly committed by another attendee.
Mohd Yusoff also referred to a housebreaking case in Tanah Merah involving the loss of 12 wristwatches, adding that further details would be provided later.
Police had seized mobile phones belonging to those involved to assist investigations.
He urged the public to direct complaints to the appropriate authorities, including the Immigration Department for immigration-related matters and local authorities for offences involving businesses or premises.
He added that Kelantan had 8,021 Myanmar refugees, with police conducting intelligence operations to monitor the community in every district.
-BERNAMA
