Tourist Extortion Tiong Calls For Tougher Punishment On Rogue Cops

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Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing intends to speak with Inspector-General of Police Khalid Ismail on the case of rogue officers allegedly extorting and sexually harassing a Taiwanese tourist.
When contacted, Tiong said it was unacceptable for the officers involved to only be transferred to other departments, as such disciplinary action was inadequate and unable to convince the public.
He urged the police to impose stricter punishments to restore the reputation of the force and, more importantly, to demonstrate to the international community that Malaysia takes the safety of tourists seriously.
"I have already instructed the deputy secretary-general of the ministry to obtain details from Bukit Aman, and I will closely monitor the progress of this case to ensure that justice is served for the victim.
ADS"I urge everyone not to lose confidence in Malaysian tourism over an isolated incident.
"I am overseas for promotional and marketing duties. Upon returning to Malaysia, I will personally follow up with the IGP and discuss concrete measures to strengthen tourist protection, including how the tourism police can operate more effectively to safeguard the rights and security of international visitors," he said.
Report untoward incidents
Tiong advised domestic and international tourists to lodge police reports and inform the ministry should they encounter similar incidents, assuring that the ministry will provide assistance within its capacity.
He urged the police to always ensure that a higher-ranking officer is present during roadblocks, as required.
On July 17, police confirmed that they had opened an investigation paper under Section 384 of the Penal Code for extortion.
The section stipulates that those found guilty can be punished with imprisonment of up to 10 years, a fine, whipping, or any two of these punishments.
Sea Park police station chief Ngo Su Siao lodged the report after police were alerted to the incident through the victim’s social media post dated July 14.
The victim, identified as Tsai Yen An, recounted that the incident occurred around 9pm on July 7 while she and her family were travelling by Grab to the SS2 night market in Petaling Jaya.
According to China Press, Petaling Jaya district police chief Shahrulnizam Ja’afar said on July 20 that the five police officers who were arrested have been transferred to other departments, and investigations are ongoing. - Mkini

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