KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Community Crime Concern Organisation (MCCC) has stated that the police should not be held responsible for not taking action against British band The 1975 for their indecent act during the Good Vibes Festival. MCCC President Tan Sri Musa Hassan emphasized that the police should have been notified of the incident promptly. He further explained that the police require a first information report (FIR) in order to take action. Musa Hassan expressed that anyone, including the audience or event organizer, could have made the first report by calling the police, which would have allowed the police personnel to inform their superiors for further action. He stressed that the first information report is crucial in cases of criminal activities and that individuals need not go to a police station to supply this information; a call to the police would suffice.
Malaysia International Humanitarian Organisation (MHO) Secretary-General Datuk Hishamuddin Hashim has called on the government to establish an enforcement agency task force to monitor performances by foreign artistes. Hishamuddin believes that such a task force would enable prompt action against those who commit offenses while on stage. He also called for strict action to be taken against event organizers, stating, “We should not tolerate foreigners who do not respect our customs and laws. The authorities must take stern action against organizers who allow such bands to perform.” Hishamuddin also emphasized the need for stricter background checks on foreign acts before they are permitted to perform in the country.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay has addressed claims of police inaction. He clarified that the band had already left the country six hours before the first police report was made. Ayob Khan explained, “The incident occurred at 11.30pm on July 21 and we understand that the concert was stopped soon after. The band then left the country the very next morning at 5.30am. The report was made at 2pm, so by that time, we were unable to take action because they had already left.” Currently, a total of 18 police reports have been lodged, with eight made in Selangor. Statements have been recorded from the organizers and the Central Agency for Application for Filming and Performance by Foreign Artistes (Puspal).
Credit: The Star : News Feed
