Investigation into alleged sexual harassment of journalist in final stages

NIBONG TEBAL:The investigation into the alleged sexual harassment of a journalist during the Sungai Bakap by-election campaign is in its final stages, Penang police chief Datuk Hamzah Ahmad said.

He said the investigation file was being finalized before being forwarded to the deputy prosecutor's office for further action.

“To date, we have recorded statements from three people to assist in the investigation. The pretrial detention of the suspect, aged around 30, ended today and we are waiting to see if his pretrial detention will be extended.

“A victim and witness identification parade was also held today. The case is being investigated under Section 509 of the Penal Code and Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act, 1955,” he said at a press conference today.

Hamzah said police also seized several personal items belonging to the suspect, including the clothes he was wearing during the incident, for further investigation.

He reiterated that the investigation would be conducted thoroughly and transparently, and that the police were also investigating the role of the suspect at the scene of the incident.

It is understood that the alleged sexual harassment occurred at Dewan Khairat Sungai Kecil on Wednesday night while the journalist was covering an event involving Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is also Umno president.

The alleged sexual harassment by the man, who claimed to be a party member, was reportedly witnessed by several other media professionals.