Rumors of riot: Penangites stocking up on food
(NST) – Short messaging services (SMS) on a possible riot in the run-up to the 13th General Election are spreading like wildfire in Penang and creating public unease.
State Police general election spokesman, ACP Roslee Chik said some families have started stockpiling on food and daily essentials after getting the SMSes.
Roslee brushed aside the rumors and said the panic was unfounded as the situation in Penang leading to the polls remained calm.
“Everthing is in order here and I advised the public to disregard the allegation in the SMS.
“I am also advising the people not to re-circulate the SMS as they can be charged under the Sediction Act,” he said Wednesday, adding the police would also act against the culprits.
Speaking at a Press conference at the state police headquarters here, Roslee said the police had received 54 reports to-date since the parliament dissolution on April 3 on the vandalism of political party properties such as flags and banners.
He said 17 of the cases reported were in Seberang Prai Tengah.