July 9 rally: No more discussions, police to take action, says Deputy IGP

(The Star) – No more discussions, it’s now time to act according to the law, Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Khalid Abu Bakar has warned those thinking of participating in the illegal Bersih 2.0 rally.

Khalid said police had tried meeting with all organisers of the proposed July 9 march to relate the concerns of the police and the public, like traders and tourism industry players, but to no avail.

“They still insist on carrying out their plans for the illegal rally, despite our meetings.

“So we are done talking to them and will now act according to the law,” he told a press conference in Bukit Aman here Friday.

Khalid also said police would detain anyone wearing any clothing promoting the rally.

“Anyone wearing shirts inciting people to join the march will be arrested, regardless if the shirts are yellow, red or purple,” he said.

Khalid also did not rule out the possibility of the Internal Security Act being utilised while apprehending participants of the illegal rally.

“We will use the full force of the law in upholding the peace and tranquility of this country,” he said, adding that police could also arrest the organisers before July 9.

Khalid said police have received 2,136 reports as well as numerous phone calls and letters from the public against the proposed illegal march.

“This shows that the public is really against this rally but they (the organisers) do not see that.

“There is no reason for them to continue with this demonstration,” he said.

He added that a total of 115 people have been detained so far in connection with the rally.