Police have opened 14 investigation papers into election-related offences during the Negeri Sembilan state election campaign, with the latest cases involving the burning of party flags and vandalism of campaign materials.
Negeri Sembilan Police Chief Datuk Alzafny Ahmad said three investigation papers were opened yesterday under Section 435 of the Penal Code for mischief by fire causing damage to property, while two others were initiated under Section 427 for committing mischief resulting in property damage.
The latest cases stemmed from two police reports lodged in Gemas, Tampin, involving party flags that were allegedly set on fire and campaign buntings that were damaged. Another report was filed in Titi, Jelebu, over a billboard that was torn and vandalised.
Between July 18 and July 25, Negeri Sembilan police received 28 reports related to election offences.
Alzafny also said police approved 94 of 95 permit applications for campaign ceramah and political activities yesterday, bringing the total number of approved permits throughout the campaign period to 416.
He said police will continue to strengthen security, monitoring and enforcement throughout the campaign, warning that any breaches of the law will be dealt with firmly.
“We urge the public to comply with the law, respect the democratic process and cooperate with the police to ensure the state election is conducted peacefully, orderly and harmoniously,” he said.
Early voting for the Negeri Sembilan state election is scheduled for Tuesday, while polling day will take place on Aug. 1.
