People around the globe celebrated the start of the New Year in various ways, from lively street parties to intimate gatherings with loved ones, as they welcomed 2024 and said goodbye to 2023 in a safe and hopefully fulfilling manner.
However, a video that went viral on social media showed some individuals celebrating by causing mass panic. The clip depicted people fleeing in fear as fireworks were ignited at ground level, reportedly taking place in Kedah during the New Year.
Is this information accurate?
Verdict:
TRUE
The police have verified that the 15-second video clip showing an incident where fireworks were set off on the ground, causing bystanders to panic and flee, did indeed occur at Dataran Bandar Baharu, Kedah.
According to authorities, they have initiated an investigation into the incident that took place at midnight on Monday (Jan 1) during the 2024 New Year celebrations there.
Bandar Baharu District Police Chief, Deputy Superintendent Azmi Mokhtar, informed Sinar Harian that setting off fireworks on the ground endangered the safety of visitors. Fortunately, the initial investigation found no injuries or loss of life.
“The review found that the District Police Headquarters (IPD) was not informed or received any application about the setting off of fireworks by the organisers.
“No permit was issued,” he stated in a press release on Monday.
Azmi stated that the case is being looked into under Section 3 (5) of the Petty Offenses Act 1955, which allows for a fine not exceeding RM100 or imprisonment for not more than a month or both.
“The public is advised not to make any speculations regarding the incident, thus causing public annoyance,” he explained.
